Greek Unity Fest is one of the most anticipated weekends each spring because it is filled with stepping, concerts, and this year, Taraji P. Henson.

On Wednesday, April 1st, the National Pan-Hellenic Council (NPHC) hosted A Night with Taraji P. Henson which featured an up-close and personal interview with Henson. The interview was conducted by Nina Rodgers ‘16, a member of the Kappa Lambda chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority Incorporated.

As a graduate of Howard University with degree in theatre arts and a single mother, Henson discussed various issues pertaining to her rise to success in theatre and her transition into television, while remaining grounded. From her debut as Yvette, girlfriend of Jodie in the urban hit Baby Boy, she has relied on her spirituality to keep her focused.

“God didn’t bless me until now because I didn’t understand it until now. With great success comes great responsibility,” said Henson.

The film industry is extremely cut throat, especially for women of color who can easily become trapped in roles that perpetuate various stereotypes. The archaic racial stereotypes such as the Jezebel, mammy, welfare queen, sassy sidekick, and their modern variations have consistently been the only options for actresses of color.

Henson mentioned that after being in Baby Boy, she was offered many urban, single mother roles and she rejected them because she did not want to get locked in a box. Although many people view roles such as those as stereotypical for Black women, Henson views them differently.

“I play them as real people. I don’t play stereotypes. These are real people and have to have life breathed into their storyline, not be stereotyped,” said Henson.

Overall, this event was received well by the student body because of Henson’s inspiring words of wisdom and her genuine responses and attention to students in the audience. From sitting on the ground to take a selfie, giving out hugs, and humbly accepting gifts, Henson has definitely won the hearts of many SU students.

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Photo courtesy Shanelle Drakeford