8/10
Walter McBride/WireImage, Dia Dipasupil/Getty Images for Tony Awards Productions
Heartfelt speeches are common at the Tonys, and Sunday's ceremony was no exception. It began with Angels in America's Andrew Garfield, who dedicated his award to the "countless" members of the LGBTQ community who have "fought and died" to protect the spirit of his character, Prior Walter. Carousel's Lindsay Mendez shared a story about maintaining her integrity early in her career, saying, "I was told to change my name from Mendez to Matthews or I wouldn't work. But I want to say how proud I am to be a part of a community that celebrates diversity." Finally, The Band's Visit star Ari'el Stachel got choked when he collected his award. "For so many years of my life, I pretended I wasn't a Middle Eastern person. I am part of a cast of actors who never believed they would portray their own races," Stachel said. "I want any kid who's watching to know that your biggest obstacle may turn into your purpose."