Alicia Keys Delivers Inspiring Message at 2025 Grammys: 'DEI Is Not a Threat, It's a Gift'

Alicia Keys shared a powerful message at the 2025 Grammys, emphasizing creativity and diversity. On February 2, during the ceremony at Crypto.com Arena in Los Angeles, the singer received the Dr. Dre Global Impact Award.

Accepting the award from Queen Latifah, Keys praised her peers. She emphasized that creativity thrives on diverse perspectives, saying, "This is not the time to shut down the diversity of voices we’ve seen on this stage." She highlighted the importance of teamwork, noting that it "changes the game."

Keys asserted, "DEI [diversity, equity, and inclusion] is not a threat, it’s a gift." This remark appeared to directly counter President Donald Trump’s criticism of DEI policies. Recently, he had suggested that these initiatives might contribute to a tragic accident involving a plane and helicopter in D.C.

The artist declared that a multitude of voices creates a powerful sound. "When destructive forces try to burn us down, we rise from the ashes like a phoenix. Music is the unstoppable language that connects us all," she continued, highlighting the resilience of creativity.

Referring to the beauty of compassion, Keys encouraged everyone to "keep showing up with compassion, with empathy, what I call soul care." Citing the late Toni Morrison, she invoked the dream of what the world should be.

Throughout her acceptance speech, Keys expressed gratitude for those in her life. She thanked Dr. Dre, affectionately calling him her "brother." She acknowledged his enduring influence in creating, "a sound that began a movement."

Key members of her community also received her thanks. She mentioned her husband, Swizz Beatz, along with Dr. Dre and the late Quincy Jones. Furthermore, Keys recognized influential women in music, including Patrice Rushen, Missy Elliott, Linda Perry, Grimes, and Solange.

"We stand together," Keys proclaimed, underscoring the unity among artists.

Harvey Mason Jr., CEO of the Recording Academy, acknowledged Keys’ wide-reaching impact. "Alicia embodies everything the Dr. Dre Global Impact Award represents," he stated. He noted how her artistry transcends boundaries and how her advocacy fosters meaningful change, shaping culture significantly.

Additionally, Keys won the Grammy for Best Musical Theater Album for "Hell’s Kitchen," a Broadway production inspired by her life.

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