On Aug. 22, 2024, during the fourth and final day of the Democratic National Convention held at the United Center in Chicago, Vice President Kamala Harris made history in accepting the Democratic presidential nomination. Former Arizona Representative Gabrielle Giffords and, her husband, Arizona Senator Mark Kelly were among the political figures who addressed the packed house on Thursday night, as did Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer, Former Illinois Representative Adam Kinzinger, and North Carolina Governor Roy Cooper.
The Chicks were on hand to perform the “National Anthem” and Pink – joined by her band and her daughter, Willow Sage – sang “What About Us.” Kerry Washington served as host, joining forces with her Scandal co-star Tony Goldwyn to film a hype video and recruiting Harris’ nieces to teach everyone the proper pronunciation of the Vice President’s first name. The evening also included powerful testimonials from representatives of The Central Park Five, gun violence survivors and gun safety advocates, and youth organizer and human trafficking survivor Courtney Baldwin.
Harris used her speech to discuss global affairs, domestic issues and more, while also giving Americans a glimpse into her upbringing and journey to become the democratic nominee.
She closed by saying, “We are the heirs to the greatest democracy in the history of the world. And on behalf of our children and grandchildren, and all those who sacrificed so dearly for our freedom and liberty, we must be worthy of this moment. It is now our turn to do what generations before us have done. Guided by optimism and faith, to fight for this country we love. To fight for the ideals we cherish. And to uphold the awesome responsibility that comes with the greatest privilege on Earth. The privilege and pride of being an American. So, let’s get out there and let’s fight for it. Let’s get out there and let’s vote for it. And together, let us write the next great chapter in the most extraordinary story ever told. Thank you. God bless you. May God bless the United States of America.”
Check out photos from Night 4 of the Democratic National Convention below. More information about the event can be found at DemConvention.com.
(Photos by Laurie Fanelli)
