The Broadway for Black Lives Matter Collective presented a night of unity and solidarity through artistic expression and conversation on Monday. The free event for the culture and the community took place at Columbia University’s Lerner Hall Roone Arledge Auditorium.

 

Guest appearances included six-time Tony Award winner Audra McDonald, four-time Grammy Award winner India Arie, Tony Award winner Billy Porter (Shuffle Along, Kinky Boots), Joshua Henry (Shuffle Along), Camille A. Brown (A Streetcar Named Desire), Professor Frank Roberts (NYU), Daniel J. Watts (Hamilton), The Broadway Inspirational Voices, and New York City Center’s cast of THE RUNAWAYS.

According to the Broadway for Black Lives Matter Collective, “An overwhelming number of friends and colleagues in the Broadway community have expressed a deep desire to participate in an open dialogue about the social and racial justice issues that are troubling our nation.” The event brought Broadway performers together with “policy reformers, educators, clergymen, public officials, and community leaders to discuss a plan of action” and “sparked conversation and encourage people to discover their roles as active participants in a movement towards positive change.”

The actors and artists on Broadway let everyone know what #BWAY4BLM is really about.

And the crowd came out in droves.

Danielle Brooks couldn’t be there in person, but stood in solidarity for the cause.

Many celebrities and artists showed their excitement on social media.

Professor Frank Roberts give a word on understanding Black Lives Matter. “If all lives matter, then it shouldn’t be any controversy focusing on Black Lives Matter.”

Of course they took everyone to church..

…And left us all blessed.

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