Summary
Kamala Harris received the Chairperson’s Award at the 56th NAACP Image Awards, delivering a powerful speech on resilience, democracy, and activism, urging the Black community to continue organising and advocating for justice.
At the 56th NAACP Image Awards, former U.S. Vice President Kamala Harris took centre stage with a rousing speech on resilience, democracy, and the power of collective action.
Kamala Harris was honoured with the prestigious Chairman’s Award, a recognition given to individuals who excel in public service and use their platforms to drive meaningful change.
This marked her first major public appearance since leaving office, following her historic tenure as the first female, Black, and South Asian Vice President of the United States. Kamala Harris delivered a pointed message about perseverance and activism in the face of challenges.
“The American story will be written by you. Written by us. By we the people,” Kamala Harris declared to a standing ovation.
She reminded the audience of the Black community’s long-standing ability to organise, mobilise, and advocate for justice, emphasising that their strength has never come from having an easy path but from their unwavering faith in each other and the fight for equality.
She also referenced the NAACP’s historical significance, stating,
“This organisation came into being at a moment when our country struggled with greed, bitterness, and hatred. Those who forged the NAACP had no illusions about how stony the road would be.”
Kamala Harris continued, highlighting the pressing issues facing the nation: “Some see the flames on our horizons, the rising waters in our cities, the shadows gathering over our democracy, and ask, ‘What do we do now?’ But we know exactly what to do, because we have done it before, and we will do it again.”
Kamala joins a distinguished list of past Chairperson’s Award recipients, including former President Barack Obama, civil rights icon John Lewis, and legendary actor Ruby Dee.
The event also celebrated achievements in entertainment, with Keke Palmer winning Entertainer of the Year for her standout performances in film and television.
Kamala Harris’s speech reinforced the ongoing fight for justice and democracy, serving as a rallying call for continued activism. Her words encapsulated the spirit of the evening, reminding all in attendance that the pursuit of equality is an enduring struggle.
