Pivotal moment during the final night of the Democratic National Convention, actress and activist Kerry Washington addressed a longstanding issue surrounding Vice President Kamala Harris: the mispronunciation of her first name. Washington, known for her powerful roles and advocacy, took to the stage to clarify the importance of pronouncing Harris’ name correctly—a gesture that resonated deeply with the audience.
“There are some who still struggle—or pretend to struggle—with how to say Vice President Kamala Harris’ first name,” Washington began, pointing out both the genuine confusion and the subtle disrespect often embedded in these errors. As reported by CNN on Saturday, August 24, 2024, Washington delivered her message with a blend of clarity and firmness, adding, “Confusion is understandable. Disrespect is not.”
This declaration was more than just a correction; it was an affirmation of respect for a leader who has shattered numerous glass ceilings. Harris, the first female, first Black, and first South Asian Vice President, has faced myriad challenges on her path to the White House, including the intentional mispronunciation of her name, sometimes used as a microaggression to undermine her authority and identity.
More Read
Adding a light-hearted yet poignant touch, Washington was joined on stage by Harris’ great-nieces, Amara and Leela Ajagu. The young girls led the crowd in a playful chant: “Comma,” like the punctuation mark, followed by “La,” like a sing-song la-la-la. This mnemonic, simple yet effective, ensured that everyone, whether present in the hall or watching at home, could pronounce the Vice President’s name correctly.
The chant embodied the convention’s spirit—one of joy, unity, and a deep respect for the diverse individuals who form the core of the Democratic Party. As the crowd echoed the chant, the underlying message was clear: Kamala Harris is a name that deserves to be spoken with respect, and any attempts to diminish her through deliberate mispronunciation will not be tolerated.
This moment was a powerful reminder that names hold significant meaning, especially for those in leadership roles, and respecting them is crucial. The incident highlighted not only the importance of Harris’ name but also the broader need to recognize and respect the identities of all individuals, particularly those who have broken barriers and continue to inspire future generations.
