Lizzo has given us an acceptance speech for the ages.
At the 2022 People’s Choice Awards, the performing artist and founder of shapewear brand Yitty was named as the “People’s Champion.” Mere seconds into her acceptance speech, the outspoken musician showed everyone why she was deserving of the honor.
“I’m here tonight because, [being] an icon isn’t about how long you have had your platform. Being an icon is what you do with that platform,” Lizzo said. “And ever since the beginning of my career, I have used my platform to amplify marginalized voices.”
In that spirit, Lizzo announced with flourish: “Make some noise for the people, y’all. These are all activists and people that I think deserve the spotlight.”
She then brought to the stage 17 women activists, human rights advocates and grassroots organizers. They included Tamika Palmer, the mother of 2020 police shooting victim Breonna Taylor, “Little Miss Flint” Mari Copeny and Girls Who Code CEO Reshma Saujani. Their work addresses a range of issues, including reproductive justice, gun control, and protection for trans and gender-nonconforming youth.
She praised each woman individually, ensuring the audience knew who they were, and what kind of work they’re doing – celebrating them for being “a voice for the voiceless,” and “work[ing] tirelessly to seek justice.”
At the start of her 6-minute speech, Lizzo confessed that “I was on the fence about whether I should accept, because if I’m the people’s champ, I don’t need a trophy for championing people.” Which is why, instead, she insisted that the audience “give [her honored guests] their flowers.”
During the ceremony, Lizzo also won song of the year for her hit tune, “About Damn Time.” The 34-year-old Emmy and Grammy winner’s mother, Shari Johnson-Jefferson, introduced Lizzo before her headline-grabbing speech.
“Power will always be to the people,” Lizzo concluded triumphantly, before telling viewers near and far to “follow them, follow them and support them.”
