Why Tracee Ellis Ross is A Role Model for Women

(This post was originally published on Oct 13th 2017 and updated on Feb 21st 2023)

Our “7 Reasons Why We Love….” series highlights women who are using their influence and platform for good and to share some fun facts about why we love about them.

While there's no doubt that celebrities can act as influential role models for their fans, it's important to note that they're not just inspiring young girls and women with their talent alone. These women are making an impact on society by using their influence in powerful and positive ways—and we love them for it!

In this post, we're celebrating Tracee Ellis Ross, a respected actress, comedian, and human rights activist who has made a name for herself as a hilarious, relatable, and talented actress in the beloved and critically acclaimed series "Girlfriends" and "Black-ish." Tracee is not only an exceptional actress but also a positive force for women in so many ways. Here are 7 reasons why we love Tracee Ellis Ross and why she is a role model for women.

1. She Embraces Her Body Shape

Tracee Ellis Ross is known for commenting on how she had issues with her body in the past, but now she fully embraces herself wholly. In an interview, she says, "I love my butt in a way I didn’t growing up, I really didn’t like it growing up. It was so much bigger than everyone else’s, and I wanted jeans to look the way they did on everyone else, and mine didn’t." Ross’s body confidence is one of the biggest reasons she is now such a great role model. She has embraced her curves and imperfections with no shame, which has helped empower other women to do the same.

2. She Is An Activist

Tracee is very vocal when it comes to human rights, and we love the fact that she is using her voice, power, and platform to highlight matters such as Black Lives Matter and Take A knee. She has been a host for a non-profit organization called Black girls Rock that was founded on empowering girls of color. She also uses her show, "Black-ish," to bring to the forefront social issues that people of color face. In these times, it is crucial that Black people have more representation under the media spotlight, as it provides a platform for conversations. Tracee does this well.

3. Her Fashion Style Is Impeccable & Unique.

Tracee Ellis Ross is a fashionista, and her style is impeccable and unique. She has always been very stylish and not afraid to show it off when the occasion calls for it! Her sense of philosophy in dressing is refreshing in this celebrity-obsessed culture. Whether she is wearing Céline, Duro Olowu, Isabel Marant, or Rachel Comey, vintage, sports or couture, she rocks each style effortlessly and fabulously. Her Instagram account is our go-to page for inspiration. You can check out her page here.

4. She Is Hella Funny

Tracee Ellis Ross is funny on and off-screen. She is the star of ABC's sitcom "Black-ish," which had an eight season run, playing Dr. Rainbow "Bow" Johnston, and she won 5 Emmys for Lead Actress in a comedy series for her portrayal. It's not just that she has a good sense of humor, but it seems her whole being radiates with a unique kind of joy and laughter whenever she is on screen.

5. She Has An Alter Ego: Rapper T-Murda

Rapper T-Murda can't rap, but tries to by rapping over lyrics of well-known rap tunes, whilst simultaneously trying to understand the lyrics, which is hilarious. Tracee's alter ego is a testament to her funny and quirky personality, and it's hard not to love her for it. Check out T-Murda here.

6. Her Mum Is Diana Ross.... Mic drop.

Tracee comes from a family of highly talented individuals who have established themselves in their respective professions. It would be remiss to talk about Tracee's achievements without acknowledging the influential presence of her mother, Diana Ross, in her life. In an interview with Essence magazine, Tracee credits her mother for not raising her with a sense of entitlement despite their privileged upbringing. Her mother taught her the value of hard work and often reminded her that she had earned everything she had, and that she needed to work for what she wanted in life. Tracee reflects that her mother's approach to parenting was exceptional and played a significant role in shaping the person she is today.

7. She Inspires Women To Be Unapologetically Themselves

Tracee is a true inspiration to women around the world. She is a force to be reckoned with, and she's not afraid to be herself. Tracee inspires us to be unapologetically ourselves and to celebrate our uniqueness, no matter what society thinks.

In interviews and speeches, she has encouraged women to embrace their bodies and their individuality, and to pursue their dreams fearlessly. She is a true role model and someone that women of all ages can look up to.

Who would you nominate for our “7 Reasons Why We Love….” series? We would love to know. Comment below x

7 reasons why we love Tracee Ellis Ross