Beyoncé has been honoured with the humanitarian award at the BET Awards, using her acceptance speech to call for voting and systemic change. The singer dedicated the award to George Floyd and protesters, urging viewers to 'vote like our life depends on it' in the upcoming US election.
Michelle Obama presented the award, praising Beyoncé's activism that 'demands justice for black lives'. Beyoncé encouraged continued action to 'dismantle a racist and unequal system', highlighting the importance of local elections and primaries.
The BET Awards celebrated black artists and sportspeople, with several performers making political statements. DaBaby's new video for 'Rockstar' evoked the killing of George Floyd, while Roddy Ricch wore a Black Lives Matter shirt during his performance.
Other winners included Megan Thee Stallion, Chris Brown, and Lizzo. Nigeria's Burna Boy won best international act, and Zimbabwe's Sha Sha won best new international act. The virtual event, hosted by Amanda Seales, marked BET's 20th awards show and 40th year as a network.
