Sunday night was a memorable one for Jennifer Lopez. She received the People's Icon Award at the 2020 People's Choice Awards. In her moving acceptance speech, she reflected on her illustrious career and the hurdles she faced "as a Latina and as a woman," and said, "The true measure [of success] is to give girls of all ages, of all colors, all over the world, the ability to do whatever they want, as much as they want, and wherever The true measure [of success] is to show girls of all ages and colors around the world that they can do anything they want, they can do as much as they want, and they can be proud of who they are, no matter where they are from," she concluded.

At the ceremony, Lopez wore a gorgeous red mini-dress by Christian Siriano. She wore clear Gianvito Rossi heels, a red clutch bag, diamond jewelry, a bold red lip, and her hair in a high, glossy ponytail. On Instagram, hairstylist Chris Appleton (opens in new tab) called the finished look "Xmas Barbie."

She was in tears, especially when she received sweet congratulatory messages from twins Max and Emme, as well as Renée Zellweger and Nicole Kidman; the full text of her acceptance speech, as reported by People, follows (opens in new tab):

2020 is no joke. " Before 2020, we were obsessed with crazy things like winning this award or being nominated for that award, or who sold the most records, or box office receipts, or "who got the latest drop before everyone else." But not this year. This year was the great leveler.

He showed me what was important and what wasn't. And for me, they reinforced what matters most. Helping each other, loving each other, being kind to each other. And the importance of connection and human contact. I realized that is what I strive for in everything I do. To reach and touch people's hearts. I believe we all want that. Like so many of us this year, it was you, my family, my friends, my babies, my fans, who pulled me up when I was tired, when I was beat down, when I couldn't lift myself up. I am so grateful to have you all in my life.

I approach my career the same way I approach my life. I lead my life, I feel it in my heart, I tell stories, I sing songs, and I always try to speak the truth. In doing so, I aim to bring a little happiness, create beauty, and inspire others to do the same. From a little girl in the Bronx, New York, I have had the opportunity to perform on some of the biggest stages in the world, including the Super Bowl earlier this year. I have seen and learned so much, and I am still learning. I am grateful to have been allowed to do this in front of you all these years.

As Latinos and as women, we have to work twice as hard for our opportunities. My big dreams and ambitions have sometimes made those around me uneasy. 'I can't be an actress. What do you want to sing when you are an actress? The more they said that, the more I thought I had no choice but to do so. That is why I am standing here now. I am so grateful to know that the true measure of my success is not in box office receipts or record sales, but in the love I feel from all of you.

The true measure is in inspiring girls of all ages and all skin colors around the world. I want you to know that your dreams are only limited by your imagination, your determination, and your will to never give up. If I have touched you or them in any way, this award is the best award I could ever receive. I accept this award with humility and gratitude and hope that as a nation we can begin to heal, unite, be proud and stand together in harmony.