Kerry Washington Receives Elevate Prize Catalyst Award, Expands Pro-Democracy Operate

At the Sundance Film Festival, Kerry Washington was honored with the Elevate Prize Catalyst Award during the event “Democracy on the Screen – and on the Line.” The award includes an unrestricted $250,000 grant to support her advocacy for civic engagement and the protection of democratic freedoms [Variety].

Recognized Among Leading Change Makers

The Elevate Prize Catalyst Award recognizes individuals who leverage their influence to inspire positive global action. Washington joins a distinguished group of past recipients, including Dwyane Wade, Michael J. Fox, Matt Damon, George and Amal Clooney, Sesame Street Workshop, and Malala Yousafzai [Elevate Prize]. Washington expressed her honor at being included among such impactful figures, stating she felt honored to be in their company [Variety].

Amplifying Grassroots Organizers

The funding from the Elevate Prize will directly support the mission of Washington’s foundation and production company, Simpson Street. She aims to direct resources toward organizers and community leaders, amplifying their messages and strengthening democracy [Variety]. Washington explained that after the 2016 election, she realized the demand to shift focus from herself to the real change makers doing the work on the ground [Variety].

A Lifelong Commitment to Activism

Washington’s commitment to activism dates back to her teenage years, when she participated in a peer-to-peer theater program addressing issues like safer sex, HIV prevention, and substance abuse [Variety]. This early experience solidified her belief in the power of art as a catalyst for social change. She prioritizes stories rooted in truth and justice through Simpson Street, and believes in the importance of uplifting the humanity and value of all people [Variety].

Executive Producer of “Nevertheless: Democracy Defenders”

During Sundance, Washington also announced her role as an executive producer for the second season of Elevate Studios’ docuseries, “Nevertheless,” titled “Nevertheless: Democracy Defenders.” The series will highlight grassroots leaders confronting polarization and threats to civil liberties globally [Elevate Prize]. She sees the series as a global extension of her foundation’s VIP Cohort program, which supports activists with training and financial backing [Elevate Prize].

A Call to Collective Action

For those feeling overwhelmed by political challenges, Washington encourages community involvement and contribution in any way possible, whether through marching, voting, or simply supporting neighbors [Variety]. She emphasized that collective action can alleviate feelings of isolation and that supporting artists who highlight the humanity of marginalized people is crucial [Variety].