“Ms. Tyson was an idol to so many young Black girls and women – myself included. Her dignity and grace were unmatched. As was her immense talent and dedication to her craft and community. Ms. Tyson’s commitment to only taking on roles that she described as having ‘strength, pride, and dignity’ came at a significant professional cost, but she was undeterred – understanding the power of her platform and fighting to change the entertainment industry’s stereotypes of Black women. Throughout her career, she took on roles that cut to the core of the Black experience in America, bringing to television and the stage important stories that needed to be told.
“Ms. Tyson’s appearance at LDF’s 2019 National Equal Justice Awards Dinner – where she accepted an award on behalf of fellow icon Harry Belafonte – is a moment I will treasure forever. Her presence on stage captivated all those in attendance and was one of the evening’s lasting memories. My heart goes out to her friends and family. She will be deeply missed.”