Honoring Sidney Poitier As Black History Month Ends

As Black History Month ends today, I just wanted to take this moment to honor one of the most influential men of the entertainment industry. Sidney Poitier was the first African-American to win an Academy Award for Best Actor for Lilies of the Field in 1963. What made Poitier stand out and makes him respected today is that during the controversial times of the 60s, he refused to give up his self respect and dignity.

He transcended beyond the bigoted images hoisted on African Americans in order to portray on screen the true image of strength that people of that time possessed. This allowed him to rise above any form of hatred and star in roles of power, where blacks were doctors, teachers, soldiers, etc. With his ability to win people over on screen, he became an inspiration throughout the United States. Also, his strong morals and ethics forced many to see the truth about their prejudices.

Sidney Poitier continues to be an inspiration for artists even today, and his legacy will live on interminably.