The final night of the Democratic National Convention was filled with energy as the world seemed ready for Vice President Kamala Harris to step into the role of the nation's next leader. From emotional family moments to hard-hitting speeches, the evening culminated in a stellar speech by Harris, who accepted the Democratic Party's nomination for president with poise, strength, and vision. The night celebrated Harris' historic candidacy, alongside Minnesota Governor Tim Walz as her vice-presidential pick, and highlighted the future of the Democratic Party. United in Chicago, they sent a clear message to the country and the world: they are ready to lead.

In one of the most unforgettable moments, the Exonerated 5—Yusef Salaam, Korey Wise, Kevin Richardson, and Raymond Santana Jr.—took the stage (Antron McCray was not in attendance), introduced by Rev. Al Sharpton. Each of these men was wrongfully convicted in the 1989 Central Park jogger case, based on coerced confessions, and spent years in prison before being exonerated by DNA evidence in 2002.

Yusef Salaam, now an elected member of the New York City Council representing Harlem, spoke candidly about Donald Trump's role in inflaming racial tensions during their trial. In May 1989, Trump took out full-page ads in New York City newspapers calling for their execution. Reflecting on Trump's actions, Salaam said, “He has never changed. And he never will. That man thinks that hate is the animating force in America. It is not.”

Salaam's election to the New York City Council in 2022 was al full-circle moment. His journey from wrongful imprisonment to political office underscores the critical need to fight for a more equitable society, particularly against Trump and his enablers.

Florida Rep. Maxwell Frost, the youngest person in Congress, brought a passionate message about the urgency of fighting climate change. “Fighting the climate crisis is patriotic,” Frost declared, contrasting the Democratic Party's commitment to addressing the climate crisis with Trump’s empty rhetoric. “It’s about actually giving a damn about the people who live in this country! Because when you love somebody, you want them to have clean air. When you love somebody, you want them to have safe drinking water. And when you love somebody, you want them to have a dignified job.” 

Frost, who has made climate justice a central focus of his work in Congress, called on voters to act now to protect the planet and future generations.

In a lighthearted and heartwarming moment, actress Kerry Washington took the stage with Vice President Kamala Harris' two great-nieces, Amara and Leela Ajagu, to teach the crowd how to pronounce their "Auntie's" name. The adorable exchange brought smiles and applause, offering joy amidst the evening’s powerful speeches. See all the cuteness above. 

Comedian D.L. Hughley took the stage with his signature wit, delivering jokes that landed hard. “Trump is saying that Kamala isn’t Black. I guarantee you this: Kamala’s been Black a lot longer than Trump’s been a Republican,” Hughley quipped to booming laughter from the crowd. He continued, “Republicans for Kamala: I guess Donald Trump will finally know what it’s like when you get left for a younger woman,” and added, “If he keeps sliding in the polls the way he is, the only thing to keep Kamala out of the White House is if he buys it and refuses to rent it to her.”

Hughley also took a moment to address previous misinformation he had spread about Harris, apologizing and emphasizing the importance of thorough research before making assumptions. His blend of humor and sincerity resonated with the crowd, serving as entertainment and a reminder to stay informed.

Maya Harris, Kamala Harris' younger sister, delivered an emotional speech that paid tribute to their late mother, Shyamala Gopalan. Maya Harris, a close confidant of Kamala throughout her career, reflected on what their mother would have said on this historic night: “I could just see her smiling, saying how proud she is of Kamala. And then, without missing a beat, she’d say, ‘That’s enough. You’ve got work to do.’”

Maya’s speech showed the family bond that has shaped Kamala Harris into the leader she is today. Maya Harris beautifully said, “Kamala knows what it’s like to be underestimated and be counted out. She knows what it’s like to be the underdog, and yet still beat the odds.”

Vice President Kamala Harris delivered a stunning and wide-ranging speech that showcased her middle-class roots, legal career, and strong stance on both domestic and foreign policy. Harris talked about her upbringing in Oakland, California, where she was raised primarily by her mother in a small apartment after her parents divorced. She spoke warmly of the friends and caregivers who were “family by love,” a testament to the community that shaped her and her values.

Outlining her career as a prosecutor, state attorney general, senator, and now vice president, Harris stated, “My entire career I’ve only had one client: the people.” In contrast, she took a jab at Donald Trump, saying, “He has only ever acted in the interests of the only client he has ever had: himself.” The crowd erupted in applause. 

Harris also delivered a fierce critique of her opponents in the race, pointing out their negative rhetoric about the country. “Our opponents in this race are out there, every day, denigrating America. Talking about how terrible everything is,” she said. Harris then shared a lesson from her mother: “Never let anyone tell you who you are. You show them who you are!”

On foreign policy, Harris was clear and resolute. Addressing the ongoing conflict in Gaza, she explained, “President Biden and I are working to end this war such that Israel is secure, the hostages are released, the suffering in Gaza ends, and the Palestinian people can realize their right to dignity, security, freedom, and self-determination.” She also took a firm stand against dictators, stating, “I will not cozy up to tyrants and dictators like Kim Jong-Un, who are rooting for Trump. They know he is easy to manipulate with flattery and favors.”

As she closed her speech, Harris issued a rallying cry to the nation: “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.”

The final night of the Democratic National Convention celebrated Kamala Harris' historic candidacy and the future of the Democratic Party. With powerful speeches, moving performances, and heartfelt family moments, the evening highlighted the strength, resilience, and hope that Harris represents. As she steps into the role of the Democratic Party's presidential nominee, Kamala Harris carries with her the energy and optimism of a nation ready for change.

Now, the work begins. If you need information about voting or want to check your registration status, BET Media Group’s We V.O.T.E. campaign is here to help. This initiative reflects BET’s unwavering commitment to empowering Black voters and amplifying their voices in the upcoming elections. By promoting collective action, BET aims to drive meaningful change through civic engagement, voter registration, and turnout. Click here to learn more.

Clay Cane is a SiriusXM radio host and the author of the New York Times bestseller The Grift: The Downward Spiral of Black Republicans From the Party of Lincoln to the Cult of Trump.