Viola Davis channelled timeless red-carpet elegance in a black off-the-shoulder gown at the MLK Jr. Beloved Community Awards. Held at the Hyatt Regency Hotel in Atlanta on January 17, the awards ceremony honoured individuals and organisations who actively contribute to social justice, community building, and humanitarian efforts.
Viola Davis’s black off-the-shoulder gown featured a clean, column silhouette. The neckline had a sculpted, folded detail that softly framed her décolletage. It added an architectural interest without distracting from the refined look of the dress. Meanwhile, the skirt fell straight to the floor.
The EGOT-winning actress completed the look with a statement pink choker necklace and coordinating earrings. The jewellery added colour, sparkle, and a regal touch to the otherwise monotone look. She wore her hair in soft, glossy waves that rested just above her shoulders. To complete her look, she chose a radiant and polished look, featuring defined eyes and a bold red lip.
Bernice King, CEO of the King Center and daughter of Rev. Martin Luther King Jr. and Coretta Scott King, presented Davis with the Coretta Scott King Soul of the Nation Award. According to Atlanta Daily World, the “Ma Rainey’s Black Bottom” star began her speech with a quote that said, “Someone once told me the definition of hell: The last day you have on earth, the person you became will meet the person you could have become.”
Per The Atlanta Journal-Constitution, other celebrity honorees at the event were Grammy-winning musician Billie Eilish and NBA star LeBron James. Eilish was presented with the Environmental Justice Award for her climate change and fashion activism.
Meanwhile, James’ mother, Gloria James, accepted the Youth Influencer Award on behalf of her son for the LeBron James Family Foundation. It contributes to the betterment of the families and children in James’ hometown of Akron, Ohio. Further, Mónica Ramírez received a King Center award for migrant rights.
