Day 13. Sheryl Lee Ralph A Voice for Artistry and Advocacy
Honoring the Jamaican-American actress, singer, and activist whose career has spanned Broadway, television, and film
A Legacy of Talent and Tenacity
Sheryl Lee Ralph is a powerhouse performer and passionate advocate whose Jamaican heritage shines through her work. Born in Connecticut to a Jamaican mother and African-American father, Ralph blazed a trail in entertainment and social justice that has inspired generations.
From her Tony-nominated role as Deena Jones in the original Broadway production of Dreamgirls to her Emmy-winning portrayal of Barbara Howard in Abbott Elementary, Ralph has used her voice to uplift stories of Black excellence—on and off the stage.
“I am an endangered species, but I sing no victim’s song. I am a woman, I am an artist, and I know where my voice belongs.” — Sheryl Lee Ralph, singing from “Endangered Species” by Dianne Reeves
The Power of Presence and Purpose
Sheryl Lee Ralph’s career spans over four decades and includes iconic roles in Moesha, Sister Act 2, and more recently, Abbott Elementary. But beyond the screen, Ralph is a fierce advocate for health equity, particularly around HIV/AIDS awareness in the Black community.
She founded The DIVA Foundation and created DIVAS Simply Singing!, the longest-running musical benefit of its kind, to raise funds and fight stigma around HIV/AIDS.
Her advocacy reflects her deep Caribbean roots, cultural pride, and commitment to using her platform for positive change.
Learn More About Sheryl Lee Ralph
📚 Read:
Redefining DIVA: Life Lessons from the Original Dreamgirl by Sheryl Lee Ralph
All Feature stories and Covers featuring Sheryl Lee Ralph in Essence Magazine
🎥 Watch:
Sheryl Lee Ralph’s Emmy Acceptance Speech
🎧 Listen:
This is Sheryl Lee Ralph playlist on Spotify
Today’s Reflection
Sheryl Lee Ralph shows us that true divas are Defined, Inspired, Victorious, and Awesome. Her artistry and activism are inseparable, demonstrating how creative brilliance can be a tool for justice and healing.
How can we use our own talents to uplift the stories and struggles of our communities?
Join us each day this month as we spotlight a different Caribbean American whose legacy calls us to reflect, learn, and celebrate. These stories are about community, culture, and the contributions that come from the rich intersections of heritage and homeland. Our weekly themes will help guide us through different aspects of Caribbean American influence—from activism to art, invention to entrepreneurship—creating a mosaic of identity that is as joyful as it is complex.
For more information and access to other events, sign our Guestbook!
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