Testimony Mag: Our Stories, Our Voices, Our Magic

There is something especially affirming about seeing Black women recognized in spaces that value risk, vulnerability, and artistic bravery. The 2026 Independent Spirit Awards nominations reflect a year where Black actresses were not just present, but essential to the stories.  Best Lead Performance In this category, Black women led with charisma, complexity, and emotional range. Keke Palmer brings undeniable presence to One of Them Days , delivering a performance that balances humor, heart, and self awareness in a way only she can. Tessa Thompson’s turn in Hedda is measured and haunting, a reminder of her ability to sit inside silence and let it speak. Lovie Simone continues to solidify her voice in Forever , offering a lead performance that feels intimate and emotionally lived in, one that resonates especially within television storytelling. Best Supporting Performance Supporting roles often carry the emotional backbone of a story, and this year’s nominees understood the as...