More Hollywood barriers fell last night as Viola Davis became the first black woman in history win an Emmy for being a lead actress in a Drama. The historical moment wasn’t lost on those in attendance or on social media as it erupted in celebration.

Davis won for her gripping role in “How to Get Away with Murder” drama.

The hit series was written by another black woman, Shonda Rhimes, who is a legend in her own right.

However, as excited and enthusiastic everyone was for Davis, another historical moment shouldn’t be lost either. Taraji P. Henson was also nominated for the Emmy for her role as ‘Cookie’ in the hit series Empire. This was the first time two black women were nominated for an Emmy as Lead Actresses at the same time, according to Vanity Fair.

Henson stood and 

Henson stood and embraced Davis after her win in a powerful moment between the two black actresses before Davis took the stage to accept her Emmy.

Her speech was gripping and powerful as she called for more representation of black women in TV, media and film.

Davis clearly indicated there aren’t many roles for black women in whitewashed Hollywood.

“The only thing that separates women of color from anyone else is opportunity. You cannot win an Emmy for roles that are simply not there,” she said.

To kick off the acceptance speech, Davis quoted Harriet Tubman:

“In my mind I see a line and over that line I see green fields and lovely flowers and beautiful white women with their arms stretched out to me over that line, but I can’t seem to get there no how. I can’t seem to get over that line.”

View her Emmy acceptance speech here:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jrkGmYbvISo