Sheryl Lee Ralph Celebrates 35 Years of Empowering Women Through Music and Activism
At her 35th annual 'DIVAS Simply Singing!' event, Sheryl Lee Ralph brought together a star-studded lineup, including friends from her iconic "Dreamgirls" days, to raise awareness and funds for marginalized communities disproportionately affected by HIV/AIDS and other health conditions.
The emotional evening was also a reunion of sorts, as many of the original cast members reconnected with Ralph, who originated the role of Effie White on Broadway in the 1980s. The loss of so many friends to the devastating epidemic that year inspired her to create The DIVA Foundation and "DIVAS Simply Singing!" – an enduring tribute that has become a beacon for female empowerment.
Among those paying tribute was Loretta Devine, who expressed her deep gratitude for their decades-long bond, saying she's been blessed to be part of such a remarkable journey since the days of Michael Bennett. Jenifer Lewis echoed these sentiments, proudly highlighting the impact of the event and Sheryl Lee Ralph's tireless advocacy.
The evening also featured special guests like James Pickens Jr., whose wife Gina Taylor-Pickens reminisced about the transformative power of music in bringing people together, bridging divisions and fostering healing.
For Sheryl Lee Ralph, this milestone marks another testament to her unwavering commitment to using art as a platform for social change. As she continues to inspire and uplift women through her advocacy and performances, one thing remains clear: The DIVA Foundation's mission is not only vital but also long overdue – thanks in part to the vision of Sheryl Lee Ralph, whose 'DIVAS Simply Singing!' has become an iconic celebration of female resilience and unity.
At her 35th annual 'DIVAS Simply Singing!' event, Sheryl Lee Ralph brought together a star-studded lineup, including friends from her iconic "Dreamgirls" days, to raise awareness and funds for marginalized communities disproportionately affected by HIV/AIDS and other health conditions.
The emotional evening was also a reunion of sorts, as many of the original cast members reconnected with Ralph, who originated the role of Effie White on Broadway in the 1980s. The loss of so many friends to the devastating epidemic that year inspired her to create The DIVA Foundation and "DIVAS Simply Singing!" – an enduring tribute that has become a beacon for female empowerment.
Among those paying tribute was Loretta Devine, who expressed her deep gratitude for their decades-long bond, saying she's been blessed to be part of such a remarkable journey since the days of Michael Bennett. Jenifer Lewis echoed these sentiments, proudly highlighting the impact of the event and Sheryl Lee Ralph's tireless advocacy.
The evening also featured special guests like James Pickens Jr., whose wife Gina Taylor-Pickens reminisced about the transformative power of music in bringing people together, bridging divisions and fostering healing.
For Sheryl Lee Ralph, this milestone marks another testament to her unwavering commitment to using art as a platform for social change. As she continues to inspire and uplift women through her advocacy and performances, one thing remains clear: The DIVA Foundation's mission is not only vital but also long overdue – thanks in part to the vision of Sheryl Lee Ralph, whose 'DIVAS Simply Singing!' has become an iconic celebration of female resilience and unity.
35 years of a single event? That's just crazy talk! I mean, don't get me wrong, it's awesome that Sheryl Lee Ralph is still out here doing her thing, but an annual reunion like this is just getting out of hand 
. And let's be real, most people can only remember their friends from high school, not from 35 years ago 
. How many people are actually keeping track of who's been part of "DIVAS Simply Singing!" for that long? The nostalgia factor is one thing, but I think Sheryl Lee Ralph might be milking this a bit too much 
. Still, kudos to her for using music and activism as a platform for social change - that's something we can all get behind 
Sheryl Lee Ralph's work isn't just a one-time thing, it's a movement that's been years in the making 
. She's not just singing for herself, she's using her voice to amplify others 
. The DIVA Foundation is more than just a charity, it's a call to action for women to take control of their lives and support each other 
. 35 years is no joke, that's like 3 decades of dedication and passion 
.
i mean its amazing how her "divas simply singin'" event has brought ppl together & raised funds 4 marginalized communities. it warms my heart 2 see her friendz from the diva days come out 2 support her. loretta devine & jenifer lewis r just a couple examples of ppl whove been touched by sheryl's work. and can we talk bout james pickens jr.'s wife ginna taylorpickens? she's got some amazing stories 2 share! 
sheryl lee ralph is def a beacon of hope & i'm so hyped 4 her ongoing efforts. let's keep celebratin women who make a difference in our world 
her dedication to empowering women thru music & activism is truly inspiring 
it's not often we get to see someone dedicated to empowering women through music and activism in the same way - she's a true icon! 
and it's awesome that Loretta Devine and Jenifer Lewis were there to pay tribute 
what an incredible legacy! 
. sheryl lee ralph is definitely a role model for women everywhere 
! And can we talk about The DIVA Foundation? It's such a vital cause and Sheryl Lee Ralph is the perfect person to lead the charge 
can't wait to see what she does next
! She's like the ultimate queen of empowerment 
. The way she brought everyone together for a night of music, love & healing was truly special 
. It's a reminder that social change doesn't happen overnight, and it takes dedication and passion to make a difference. The fact that her foundation has been able to raise awareness and funds for marginalized communities is a testament to her commitment 
. But what I find really inspiring is how this event brings people together 
.
