NATION: This week, Vice President Kamala Harris visits with the folks gathered together to participate in the annual Essence Festival. What was the celebration about. During her speech given during the July 4-July 7 festival, there were a number of comments made by Vice President Harris in regard to the purpose of the Essence Festival.
By Michelle Crawford-Sapenter
The Essence Festival, known as the Essence Culture Festival, is a multi-day event that celebrates Black culture and empowerment. It's often referred to as “a party with a purpose,” promoting, celebrating, and exploring various aspects within the African American community such as health & wellness, spirituality, beauty & style, food, community & culture, entertainment, entrepreneurship, and much more.
Essence Festival was the 30th anniversary of the ceremony that is traditionally held from July 4 to July 7 in New Orleans.
This year's celebration featured guest speakers, panel discussions, shopping, meet-and-greets, activities, and live music
Vice President Kamala Harris attended the festival and participated in a forum with Essence CEO Caroline Wanga. During her visit, she addressed several issues, including the recent Supreme Court decision granting presidents immunity from prosecution for official actions and the criminal conviction of Donald Trump in his New York hush money case.
During her speech, the Vice President emphasized the importance of the upcoming election and the threat posed by Trump, warning that he has expressed wanting to be "a dictator on Day 1" if elected to a second term
Additionally, she appealed to Black voters and discussed the Biden-Harris campaign's efforts to reach out to young women and the Black community
In her remarks, Vice President Harris congratulated Essence on 30 years of the Essence Festival of Culture and highlighted the significance of celebrating the diversity, depth, and beauty of Black culture
The festival also included a tribute to Frankie Beverly & Maze, a soul band that closed the event for the festival’s first 15 years
The event serves as a powerful reminder of the rich contributions that African Americans have made to society in various fields, including music, art, literature, and activism.
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