For the first time in Oscars history, two African-American actors won in both the Best Supporting Actor and Best Supporting Actress categories, marking a huge step forward for equality in the industry. Mahershala Ali won for his moving role in awards-season darling Moonlight, and undisputed queen Viola Davis won for her role in Fences. After last year’s #OscarsSoWhite controversy, it’s certainly refreshing to see not only that the number of films featuring people of color has increased, but also that the actors shining in those films are getting the recognition they deserve. Mahershala was also the first Muslim actor ever to win an Oscar, making his win doubly significant. We can only hope that this movement toward diversity continues even as countries around the world try to close their borders to outsiders. Sometimes, with the help of a few outspoken stars, Hollywood truly can be a beacon of light,
