On February 22, 2025, Kamala Harris, the former Vice President, returned to the public eye at the 56th NAACP Image Awards in Pasadena, California. This marks her first televised appearance since leaving office. Harris was honored with the Chairman’s Award, a significant recognition at the event.
Among the attendees were numerous celebrities, including Kerry Washington, Oscar nominees Zoe Saldaña and Cynthia Erivo, Gabrielle Union, and Marlon Wayans. The event offered Harris an opportunity to address the prevailing political conditions in the United States.
In her acceptance speech, the former Vice President reflected on the historical role of the NAACP in shaping America’s journey towards equality and justice. She drew a parallel between the founding of the NAACP in the early 20th century and the current era, marked by the beginning of Donald Trump’s second term as President.
Without referring to Trump or his administration directly, Harris addressed the challenges faced by the nation. She spoke of the “shadows gathering over our democracy” and the ongoing struggle against “greed, bitterness, and hatred,” seemingly referencing the direction of the current administration and Elon Musk’s significant role in government affairs.
Harris, in her address, acknowledged the current challenges, but remained hopeful. She spoke about the environmental and democratic challenges the country faces, including “flames on our horizons” and “rising waters in our cities,” alongside the aforementioned “shadows gathering over our democracy.”
She then shifted her message towards determination and resilience, stating, “We know exactly what to do because we have done it before, and we will do it again.” This statement paints the current obstacles as surmountable, citing America’s history of overcoming adversity through joint action.
Harris emphasized the role of collective action and faith in overcoming adversity. Drawing from the NAACP’s legacy, she underscored the power of organization and advocacy.
According to Harris, real power is derived from organizing, mobilizing, educating, and advocating. She argued that true strength is born out of faith – in God, in each other, and in the refusal to yield to cynicism and destruction. The fight, she said, is not because it is easy or victory is guaranteed, but because it is necessary and worth pursuing.
The audience enthusiastically responded to Harris’ speech, giving her a standing ovation. Her final message was one of hope and civic engagement, reminding the audience that the American story is written not just by those in power or with wealth, but by the people.
The Chairman’s Award is given to individuals who have shown excellence in public service and used their platforms to inspire and make significant, meaningful changes. Previous recipients include President Barack Obama, Representatives John Lewis and Maxine Waters, actors Samuel L Jackson and Forest Whitaker, and poet Amanda Gorman.
Harris has been a trailblazer throughout her career. She served as California’s Attorney General from 2011-2017, followed by a term as a U.S. Senator from 2017-2021. In 2021, she made history as the first woman, Black American, and Asian American to serve as Vice President of the United States.
Her historic journey continued in 2024 when she became the Democratic Party’s presidential nominee after President Joe Biden withdrew his reelection bid and endorsed her. Harris chose Minnesota Governor Tim Walz as her running mate and focused her campaign on issues such as abortion rights, cannabis legalization, civil rights, climate change, economy, gun control, healthcare, housing, and immigration.
Harris’ campaign set a record by raising over $1 billion in just three months. However, despite this, she was defeated by President Donald Trump in the general election.
Besides Harris, the NAACP Image Awards ceremony also recognized other notable figures. The Wayans family was inducted into the NAACP Image Awards Hall of Fame for their contributions to film, television, sketch, and stand-up comedy. Comedian Dave Chappelle received the President’s Award, and the ceremony acknowledged residents of Altadena, a neighborhood affected by recent wildfires in the Los Angeles area.
As Harris returns to the public sphere, she is contemplating her future, including a potential presidential run in 2028. Meanwhile, her message of resilience and collective action continues to resonate with her followers.
