Jenifer Lewis made a powerful statement Monday night at the 2018 Emmy Awards.
The Black-ish star walked the red carpet in Los Angeles wearing Nike apparel in support of the brand’s “Just Do It” anniversary campaign featuring former NFL quarterback Colin Kaepernick.
Lewis’ decision to forgo formal attire for a Nike sweatshirt and sneakers was a bold choice given the backlash the sportswear giant faced for its Labor Day commercial.
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Critics of the campaign argued it was offensive to give Kaepernick — the leader of the #TakeAKnee movement — a national platform, while supporters praised the ad for drawing awareness to racial injustice.
Falling into the latter category of this debate, the actress explained to Variety that she was proud to rock Nike at the star-studded affair.
“I am wearing Nike to applaud them for supporting Colin Kaepernick and his protest against racial injustice and police brutality,” the 61-year-old entertainer told the publication.
Lewis also praised Nike for its commitment to “the resistance,” adding, “What can I do? What can I do that’s meaningful? I’ll wear Nike. I’ll wear Nike to say thank you. Thank you for leading the resistance! We need more corporate America to stand up also.”
Many fans on social media hailed the Broadway star’s outfit and words as inspiring.
“Jenifer Lewis in her Nike outfit doing a high kick on the red carpet at the #Emmys at 61 years old is inspiring,” CNN political commentator Keith Boykin wrote on Twitter.
Jenifer Lewis in her Nike outfit doing a high kick on the red carpet at the #Emmys at 61 years old is inspiring. pic.twitter.com/dBtk4uMEeL
— Keith Boykin (@keithboykin) September 18, 2018
As for how Black-ish fared at the Emmys, it lost to The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel in the outstanding comedy series category.
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