MPAC Hollywood Bureau Applauds Regina King's Emmy Win
By Suhad (Sue) Obeidi
Director of the Hollywood Bureau

On Sunday night, actress  Regina King  won an Emmy award for her role as an American Muslim woman in Disney/ABC Television's drama  American Crime . MPAC's  Hollywood Bureau  congratulates Ms. King as she is the first actress to win an Emmy for portraying an American Muslim character in a recurring role.
 We would like to also congratulate actress  Viola Davis  for being the first African American to win an Emmy award for best lead actress in a drama series. Ms. Davis won for her role in Disney/ABC Television’s series  How to Get Away with Murder . This year, the  Academy of Television Arts and Science  made history by nominating two African American women in this category.  In fact, nominations for African Americans were at a record high, 18 across all acting categories. During her profound acceptance speech, Ms. Davis said, “The only thing that separates women of color is opportunity.” To watch Ms. Davis' acceptance speech, please  click here . 
 While we have a ways to go with diversity and authentic portrayals of underrepresented communities in the entertainment industry, we are turning a corner. I do see more people who look like you and me on television today, and I am hopeful that the trend not only continues, but becomes the new normal. 
 However, we cannot wait for Hollywood executives to come around and represent our community in an authentic light. Ultimately, this responsibility is ours. To this end, MPAC's 3rd Screenwriters Workshop is scheduled for November 4 and 5.  Apply here  by October 8. We have a great lineup of workshop facilitators, who are award-winning professionals in the industry including, Screenwriter  Roger Wolfson , Transmedia Producer  Jay Buchman  and the Producers of East Los High,  Mauricio and Katie Mota .
 Once again, congratulations to all the winners from this weekend's Emmy Awards!