It's almost time to give out the awards.

We're just hours away from the 43rd annual NAACP Image Awards, hosted by Sanaa Lathan of the hit movie "Contagion," and Anthony Mackie of the Oscar-winning film "The Hurt Locker." The show will air on NBC tonight at 8:00 p.m. (7:00 p.m. Central).

It's going to be a fantastic evening, with performances by Lenny Kravitz, Jill Scott, Kirk Franklin, Jennifer Hudson, and Ne-Yo, and appearances by Samuel L. Jackson, LL Cool J, Sidney Poitier, Harry Belafonte, Vanessa Williams and many more of your favorite stars.

I hope you'll watch as we honor the outstanding achievements of people of color in television, recording, literature, and motion picture arts -- but you can be more than just a spectator.

The Image Awards ceremony isn't only about the celebrities on the screen -- it's also about celebrating and uplifting our community. So while you watch, make sure to share your thoughts about the nominees, winners, speeches, and performances on Twitter.

Use the hashtag #ImageAwards and take part in the conversation

Make sure to tell your family and friends to tune into the Awards at 8:00 p.m. (7:00 p.m. Central) tonight on NBC!
Ben
Benjamin Todd Jealous
President and CEO
NAACP