Denzel Washington is one of many Black actors who has broken numerous barriers within the American theater industry.
But Washington has dedicated his career to honoring a man who opened so many doors for Black artists and Black America.
World-renowned playwright, August Wilson provided new opportunities for Black actors, creating roles they could identify with.
He believed in sharing stories of Black folk’s humanity with audiences of all races.
Wilson’s Century Cycle of works is a ten-play anthology of Black American life through 100 years of history.
His works include Fences, which Washington starred in on Broadway. Washington produced Fences into a film, starring alongside Viola Davis.
Washington also led a $5 million fundraising effort to restore Wilson’s Pittsburgh home into a museum. When the museum opened, Washington stated, “It is a privilege and an honor and a responsibility … and a joy to play a small part in keeping him alive.”
Washington worked with others in Wilson’s immediate community to restore the museum. Before his death Wilson requested the museum be “useful” for his community, incorporating studio and performance space.
Washington wants upcoming generations to appreciate Wilson’s impact, taking the torch Wilson left to spark inspiration in future Black artists.
Like Washington and Wilson, we must understand the responsibility we have to ensure our stories are told!