Melissa Viviane Jefferson, American singer better known as Lizzo, gave a rousing speech about suppression and the need for people to speak up courageously while accepting the 2020 Billboard Music Award for top song sales artiste on Wednesday night.
The 32-year-old singer said after thanking her team and fans; “I just want to say, I’ve been thinking a lot about suppression and the voices that refused to be suppressed.
“I wonder, would I be standing here right now if it weren’t for the big Black women; who refused to have their voices be suppressed. I just want to say right now, if you’re at home watching this and you are thinking about changing yourself to feel worthy, this is your sign to remain true to who you are.
“Let me tell you all something. When people try to suppress something, it’s normally because that thing holds power,” she continued. “They’re afraid of your power. There’s power in who you are. There’s power in your voice. So whether it’s through music, protests, or your right to vote, use your power; use your voice and refuse to be suppressed.”