Kerry Washington continues to solidify her status as one of Hollywood’s most dynamic leading ladies. 

At the 56th annual NAACP Image Awards, the acclaimed actress took home the award for “Outstanding Actress in a Motion Picture” for her portrayal of Major Charity Adams, the commanding officer of the 6888th Central Postal Directory Battalion, in the film, “Six Triple Eight,” presented by actors Jay Ellis and Danielle Deadwyler.

Directed by Tyler Perry, the film tells the story of the all-Black, all-female battalion that delivered mail to U.S. troops during World War II. It has also been nominated tonight for Outstanding Motion Picture alongside some of the year’s biggest films, including Bad Boys: Ride or Die and Wicked. 

During her speech, Washington thanked her family, Perry, the real-life heroes of the army battalion, and the cast of the motion drama who also earned Outstanding Ensemble Cast in a Motion Picture.

“How Extraordinary we have always been in a time when our history is being ripped from us when people are trying to get us to not tell our stories; we are telling your stories, ladies, because you are calling us forward into our greatness,” she shared, adding, “And that’s what this is about, it's about we all of us being called into our greatness. So remember your greatness because that is what the fight is for. 

Washington had been up against several Hollywood powerhouses, including Cynthia Erivo (Wicked), Lashana Lynch (Bob Marley: One Love), Lupita Nyong'o (A Quiet Place: Day One), and  Regina King (Shirley). Tonight’s achievement marks the star’s seventh win. 

Not long after, the star returned to the stage alongside other cast members to accept the awards for Outstanding Motion Picture presented by award-winning actor Don Cheadle. 

The 56th Annual NAACP Image Awards were hosted by comedian, actor, and writer Deon Cole live at the Pasadena Civic Auditorium in Los Angeles, California. 

Congratulations again to Kerry Washington.