Susan Bro, Heather Heyer’s mother, presenting at 2017 VMAs

We already have some advance news on what one of the more powerful moments during the 2017 MTV VMAs is going to be. Susan Bro, the mother of late Charlottesville activist Heather Heyer, will be present to present the Best Fight the System Award, one that is meant (per Entertainment Weekly) to recognize “the audience’s passion and activism surrounding environmental justice, immigration, LGBTQ equality, and racial justice.”

In a statement, Bro had the following to say about taking to the stage for this moment:

“Since my daughter Heather Heyer’s death two weeks ago I have committed myself to making her death count. That is why I am launching the Heather Heyer Foundation. I can think of no better platform to promote this foundation to the world than at the MTV’s Video Music Awards. It’s going to be an honor for me to be presenting the Best Fight the System award there tonight.”

This is going to be one of the most powerful moments of the night for the VMAs, which is coming in general at a very serious time for the country. The entire Houston area is suffering as a result of Hurrcane Harvey and the ensuing floods, and the calls for social change continue to be strong in the aftermath of so many protests and the rise of horrific neo-Nazi rallies. Heyer died trying to take a stand for what is right, which is why Bro continues to fight so hard to honor her name with her foundation and her own attempts to bring about change.

Speaking to People Magazine, Susan admitted that being at an awards show like the VMAs was still something that was a little challenging for her to digest:

“When they first asked me I hadn’t realized how far-reaching Heather’s message had been … I was a bit skeptical. ‘What do you want a 60-year-old woman on your show for?’ I didn’t realize how many people were paying attention. But now I’ve realized this is bigger than Heather, this is bigger than me. This is something that touches people everywhere, the idea that you can stand up and be counted, that you have it within you to be that hero, so I feel like I have an obligation to share that.”

Seeing how MTV chooses to produce the awards tonight will show a lot about the tone that they want today’s youth to adapt. This is an influential network, and they have the power to enact significant change in their own right. They want to offer escapism given that is the focus of television, but at the same time also want to ensure that viewers are not blind to the difficulties going on in the world.

Want to live stream the VMAs red carpet?

If that is something on your mind, rest assured that we’ve got some more coverage for you! All you have to do is head over to the link here. That will also tell you a little bit more about the full lineup of performers for tonight. (Photo: MTV.)