Famous Black Actresses who are Gun-rights advocates

The discussion regarding gun rights in Hollywood is frequently dominated by calls for stricter control and regulation. Yet there exists a significant number of Black actresses who openly support the Second Amendment as a means of personal protection. These women often cite the historical and practical necessity of self-defense for ensuring the safety of their families. By speaking out or taking on roles that emphasize firearms proficiency they challenge the prevailing stereotypes about celebrity political alignments. Their perspectives highlight the complex relationship between fame and the fundamental human right to self-preservation.

Stacey Dash

Best known for her role in the cult classic ‘Clueless’ (1995), Stacey Dash has become a prominent conservative voice in Hollywood. She is a vocal supporter of the Second Amendment and has publicly shared her personal experiences with self-defense. Dash wrote in her memoir that owning a firearm saved her life during a confrontation with an abusive ex-partner. She frequently argues that the right to bear arms is essential for women’s safety and empowerment.

Sherri Shepherd

The former co-host of ‘The View’ and star of ‘Less Than Perfect’ has been open about her decision to purchase a firearm for protection. During a broadcast, Shepherd revealed that she bought a 9mm handgun after feeling vulnerable as a single mother. She emphasized the empowerment she felt after taking lessons and learning how to handle the weapon safely. Shepherd has challenged anti-gun narratives on television, arguing for the necessity of self-defense in the home.

Maya Angelou

The late poet and actress, known for her role in ‘Roots’ (1977), was a staunch believer in the right to self-defense. In an interview with ‘Time’ magazine, Angelou famously revealed that she owned guns and had once used a weapon to scare off an intruder at her home. She viewed firearm ownership as a pragmatic necessity for protecting her household. Her stance surprised many who associated her primarily with her literary work, but she remained firm in her conviction regarding personal safety.

Mo’Nique

The Academy Award-winning actress from ‘Precious’ (2009) has spoken candidly about owning firearms for the protection of her family. Known for her unfiltered honesty, Mo’Nique has discussed the reality of security needs for high-profile individuals. She treats gun ownership as a serious responsibility, ensuring she and her family are trained and prepared. Her advocacy often centers on the right of Black women to defend themselves against threats.

Whoopi Goldberg

While often leaning left on many political issues, the EGOT winner and ‘Ghost’ (1990) actress has admitted to being a gun owner on ‘The View’. Goldberg has defended the right of individuals to own firearms for protection, distinguishing between responsible ownership and illegal violence. She has engaged in heated debates with guests, asserting that she keeps a weapon in her home for safety. Her position highlights the nuanced views on gun rights that exist within Hollywood.

LisaRaye McCoy

The star of ‘The Players Club’ (1998) has been transparent about her familiarity with firearms and her willingness to use them for defense. In various interviews and podcasts, McCoy has shared stories about carrying a weapon for protection during her earlier years. She views the ability to defend oneself as a non-negotiable aspect of personal security. McCoy’s tough, independent on-screen persona often mirrors her real-life belief in self-reliance.

Kandi Burruss

A Grammy-winning songwriter and star of ‘The Real Housewives of Atlanta’, Burruss is known to be a licensed concealed carry permit holder. On her reality series, she has been shown visiting shooting ranges and discussing the importance of security with her family. Burruss advocates for women being able to protect their businesses and homes. Her pragmatic approach to firearms is often linked to her status as a high-profile entrepreneur in Atlanta.

Oprah Winfrey

The media mogul and actress, acclaimed for ‘The Color Purple’ (1985), surprised many when she revealed her status as a gun owner. During discussions on gun control, Winfrey has noted that she keeps a firearm for safety, stating in interviews that she is prepared to use it if her safety is threatened. While she supports safety measures, she has maintained her right to personal protection. Her admission brought mainstream attention to the number of liberal celebrities who privately own firearms.

Halle Berry

While preparing for her role in ‘John Wick: Chapter 3 – Parabellum’ (2019), Berry underwent rigorous tactical firearms training. She has spoken extensively about the empowerment and discipline she found in mastering weapons handling. Berry’s dedication to realistic portrayals of armed women helped normalize the image of female proficiency with guns. She frequently shares her training videos, advocating for the sport and the skill involved in shooting.

Pam Grier

As the icon of 1970s Blaxploitation cinema, the star of ‘Foxy Brown’ (1974) and ‘Coffy’ (1973) revolutionized the image of the armed Black woman. Grier took ownership of these roles, portraying characters who used firearms to dismantle criminal syndicates and exact justice. She has discussed the importance of those characters in giving women a sense of agency and power. Her legacy is built on the archetype of the woman who refuses to be a victim.

Luenell

The comedian and actress, known for ‘Borat’ (2006), has spoken about the necessity of personal protection in the entertainment industry. Luenell has discussed the lack of security at comedy clubs and the need for performers to ensure their own safety. She has alluded to carrying protection and supports the idea of being prepared for dangerous situations. Her commentary often reflects a practical, no-nonsense approach to self-defense.

Grace Jones

The Jamaican-American model and actress played the iconic Bond villain May Day in ‘A View to a Kill’ (1985). Jones is known for her fierce, warrior-like image that frequently incorporates weaponry as a symbol of strength. Throughout her career, she has subverted traditional gender roles, often wielding firearms in art and film to project dominance. Her work advocates for a vision of Black femininity that is dangerous, capable, and unapologetic.

Tamara Dobson

Best known as the title character in ‘Cleopatra Jones’ (1973), Dobson played a government agent who was heavily armed and highly skilled. Her character was a direct representation of law and order, using firearms to protect her community from drug traffickers. Dobson’s portrayal was crucial in establishing the female action hero who could handle weapons better than her male counterparts. She championed the image of a woman who was the ultimate protector.

Teresa Graves

Starring in ‘Get Christie Love!’ (1974), Graves played the first Black woman hired by a city police department on a TV drama. Her character was a pistol-packing detective who popularized the phrase, “You’re under arrest, sugar!” Graves’ role normalized the sight of Black women in law enforcement carrying firearms for public safety. She paved the way for future actresses to take on roles as armed officers and agents.

Gloria Hendry

As Rosie Carver in ‘Live and Let Die’ (1973), Hendry was the first African American Bond girl to be romantically involved with 007. Her role involved espionage and the use of weaponry, breaking barriers for Black actresses in the action genre. Hendry has continued to celebrate her legacy in the Bond franchise, which is heavily centered on firearms and spycraft. She remains a symbol of the early integration of Black women into major action blockbusters.

Trina Parks

Parks made history as Thumper in ‘Diamonds Are Forever’ (1971), showcasing physical combat skills and toughness. While her character relied more on martial arts, her presence in the gun-heavy world of James Bond established a precedent for formidable Black female antagonists. She advocates for the recognition of these pioneer roles in paving the way for modern female action stars. Parks continues to appear at conventions, celebrating the strength of her character.

Lashana Lynch

In ‘No Time to Die’ (2021), Lynch played Nomi, the agent who inherits the 007 title, showcasing elite firearms proficiency. Lynch underwent extensive commando training for the role, advocating for a realistic portrayal of a female soldier. She has spoken about the importance of Black women taking up space in the action genre as capable protectors. Her performance modernized the concept of the “gun-rights” hero within the context of national service.

Naomie Harris

As Moneypenny in the Daniel Craig era of James Bond films, starting with ‘Skyfall’ (2012), Harris transformed the character from a secretary into a field agent. She received tactical firearms training to portray a character capable of providing sniper support. Harris has spoken about enjoying the physical empowerment of the role and the shift towards active duty for female characters. Her portrayal advocates for women being on the front lines rather than the sidelines.

Danai Gurira

Famous for her role as Michonne in ‘The Walking Dead’, Gurira is a master of both the katana and firearms on screen. Her character evolves into a fierce protector of her group, using any weapon necessary to ensure survival. Gurira advocates for the portrayal of African women as warriors and guardians. Her work in the Marvel Cinematic Universe as Okoye further cements her status as an icon of armed defense.

Sonequa Martin-Green

As the lead in ‘Star Trek: Discovery’ and a key player in ‘The Walking Dead’, Martin-Green is frequently seen wielding phasers and automatic weapons. Her roles consistently place her in positions of command where firearm proficiency is essential for leadership. She advocates for characters who are tactically brilliant and physically capable. Martin-Green’s performances highlight the necessity of being armed and ready in hostile environments.

Queen Latifah

From ‘Set It Off’ (1996) to ‘The Equalizer’ TV series, Queen Latifah has built a career playing women who are proficient with firearms. In ‘The Equalizer’, she plays a vigilante who uses guns to defend the helpless, advocating for a form of community justice. Latifah’s father was a police officer, and she has spoken about her respect for the training and responsibility required to handle weapons. She often portrays the “protector” archetype, normalizing armed defense.

Vivica A. Fox

Known for her roles in ‘Kill Bill’ (2003) and ‘Independence Day’ (1996), Fox often plays characters who are unafraid to use firepower. In ‘Kill Bill’, her character Vernita Green acts as a skilled assassin, showcasing a comfortable relationship with weapons. Fox has embraced the action star label, advocating for women over 40 to remain visible in physical, combat-heavy roles. Her career reinforces the image of the Black woman as a formidable combatant.

Meagan Good

Good has taken on numerous action-heavy roles in films like ‘Deception’ (2013) and ‘Monster Hunter’ (2020). She often portrays detectives or agents who rely on their sidearms to do their jobs. Good advocates for fitness and self-defense training, often showcasing her physical preparation for roles. Her characters frequently use guns to assert authority and protect the innocent.

Paula Patton

In ‘Mission: Impossible – Ghost Protocol’ (2011) and ‘2 Guns’ (2013), Patton played agents who were highly skilled marksmen. She trained extensively with firearms for these roles, praising the discipline required to shoot accurately. Patton advocates for women being seen as equal partners in the action genre, capable of handling heavy weaponry. Her on-screen proficiency challenges the trope of the damsel in distress.

Zoe Saldaña

Saldana is one of the most successful action stars in history, with gun-toting roles in ‘Colombiana’ (2011), ‘Avatar’, and ‘The Losers’. In ‘Colombiana’, she played an assassin seeking revenge, a role that required intense weapons training. Saldana advocates for the intensity and dedication required to master firearms for film. She views these roles as a way to project female strength and autonomy.

Thandiwe Newton

As Maeve Millay in ‘Westworld’, Newton played a sentient android who gains self-awareness and uses firearms to fight for her freedom. Her character’s use of guns is a direct tool of liberation against her oppressors. Newton has received critical acclaim for the physicality of the role. Her portrayal advocates for the right of the oppressed to arm themselves and fight back.

Tessa Thompson

In ‘Westworld’ and ‘Men in Black: International’ (2019), Thompson plays characters who are professionally trained to wield futuristic and realistic firearms. Her role as Charlotte Hale involves ruthless efficiency and a willingness to use force. Thompson advocates for diverse representation in sci-fi action, where Black women are often the ones holding the big guns. She brings a sense of authority and competence to every armed role.

Rosario Dawson

Dawson has played numerous characters who use firearms, from ‘Sin City’ (2005) to Ahsoka Tano in the ‘Star Wars’ universe (where she wields lightsabers, but operates in a war zone). In ‘Zombieland: Double Tap’, she plays a survivor who is heavily armed and self-sufficient. Dawson advocates for self-reliance and has played activist roles that fight for community safety. Her characters often embody the spirit of the rugged survivor.

Angela Bassett

Bassett has played multiple law enforcement roles, most notably in the ‘9-1-1’ series as Sergeant Athena Grant. Her character is a responsible gun owner and police officer who uses her weapon to save lives daily. Bassett advocates for the portrayal of strong, competent women in positions of power. Her realistic handling of firearms on screen reflects a respect for the tools of the trade.

Alfre Woodard

In ‘Luke Cage’, Woodard played Mariah Dillard, a villain who was not afraid to use a gun to eliminate her enemies. While a complex antagonist, her character demonstrated that older Black women could be portrayed as dangerous and powerful. Woodard’s performance challenged the “mammy” stereotypes often afforded to women of her age. She advocated for the complexity of the character, including her ruthless use of violence.

Simone Missick

Best known as Misty Knight in ‘Luke Cage’ and ‘The Defenders’, Missick played a detective with a bionic arm and a trusty sidearm. Her character is a staunch believer in justice and the use of force when necessary. Missick advocates for the representation of Black women as heroes who can stand toe-to-toe with superpowered beings. Her gun was often her equalizer in a world of enhanced threats.

Ryan Michelle Bathe

In the series ‘The Endgame’, Bathe played an FBI agent relentlessly pursuing a criminal mastermind. The role required her to be constantly armed and ready for tactical situations. Bathe advocates for the visibility of dark-skinned Black women in leading action roles. Her portrayal emphasized intelligence combined with the physical ability to use lethal force.

Garcelle Beauvais

In ‘White House Down’ (2013), Beauvais played the First Lady, but she has also taken on action-oriented roles in her career. As a former fashion model, she advocates for breaking out of the “pretty face” box and taking on gritty, armed characters. She has discussed the fun and empowerment of playing badasses on screen. Beauvais supports the idea of women being capable of defending their families.

Sophie Okonedo

In ‘Aeon Flux’ (2005), Okonedo played a skilled operative with a distinct look and lethal abilities. She has consistently chosen roles that are unconventional and often involve physical danger. Okonedo advocates for unique storytelling where women are the primary movers of the action. Her characters often use weaponry to disrupt the status quo.

Marianne Jean-Baptiste

Known for ‘Without a Trace’ and the ‘RoboCop’ (2014) remake, Jean-Baptiste often plays high-ranking law enforcement officials. Her characters carry firearms as part of their duty to uphold the law. She advocates for serious, dramatic portrayals of Black women in authority. Her gun usage on screen is always disciplined and professional.

Regina Hall

In the 2019 ‘Shaft’ sequel, Hall played a character who was far more than just a love interest, getting in on the action. She has transitioned from comedy to roles that showcase her range, including those requiring weapon handling. Hall advocates for Black women in comedy also being seen as viable action stars. She brings a sense of competence to every scene, even when armed.

Sommore

The “Queen of Comedy” is known for her stand-up routines where she discusses the realities of life as an independent woman. She has joked about the necessity of keeping protection and being self-reliant. Sommore advocates for women taking control of their own safety and finances. Her humor often touches on the practical aspects of self-defense in the modern world.

Cocoa Brown

A comedian and actress who has appeared in ‘Ted 2’ and ‘The Single Moms Club’, Brown frequently discusses her no-nonsense attitude. She has alluded to the importance of home protection in her comedy sets. Brown advocates for single mothers being able to defend their households. Her persona is built on being a tough, immovable force who protects her own.

Tami Roman

The reality star and actress from ‘Basketball Wives’ has transitioned into dramatic acting roles that often involve crime and punishment. Roman has been open about her tough upbringing and the need for survival skills. She advocates for women being street-smart and prepared for any eventuality. Her on-screen characters often mirror her real-life resilience and toughness.

Kym Whitley

A close friend of Sherri Shepherd, Whitley has been mentioned in discussions regarding trips to the gun range for training. As a comedian and actress, she often brings levity to serious subjects but supports the empowerment of her peers. Whitley advocates for women trying new things, including learning how to shoot. She represents the everyday woman who decides to take safety into her own hands.

Mary J. Blige

In ‘Power Book II: Ghost’, Blige plays Monet Tejada, a drug queenpin who rules her organization with an iron fist and a firearm. Blige advocates for the raw, gritty portrayal of women who survive in dangerous worlds. Her character uses guns to protect her family business and maintain respect. Blige’s performance has been praised for its menacing authenticity.

Naturi Naughton

As Tasha St. Patrick in ‘Power’, Naughton played a character who was intimately familiar with the violence of the drug trade. Tasha was often required to wield a weapon to defend her children or herself. Naughton advocates for the complex portrayal of women caught in criminal lifestyles. Her character’s use of guns was always a last resort for survival.

Patina Miller

In ‘Power Book III: Raising Kanan’, Miller plays Raq Thomas, a cold-blooded matriarch who is an expert shot. Miller trained extensively to look natural handling firearms of the 1990s era. She advocates for the “anti-hero” female lead who is just as dangerous as the men. Her portrayal is one of the most dominant armed female characters on modern television.

Rutina Wesley

Best known as Tara Thornton in ‘True Blood’, Wesley played a character who had to constantly fight for survival against supernatural threats. She often used firearms loaded with wooden bullets or other anti-vampire munitions. Wesley advocates for Black women in the horror/fantasy genre. Her character was a fighter who refused to be helpless.

Jurnee Smollett

As Black Canary in ‘Birds of Prey’ (2020), Smollett played a superhero, but in ‘Lovecraft Country’, she used firearms to fight against racists and monsters alike. Smollett advocates for roles that combine social justice with high-octane action. Her characters often use guns as tools of resistance against oppression. She brings a fierce, athletic energy to her armed roles.

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