Tracee Ellis Ross Hosts Day Two of the Democratic National Convention

From Harper's BAZAAR

• Tracee Ellis Ross, star of Black-ish and Girlfriends, hosts night two of the Democratic National Convention.

• In her opening remarks, the actress said tonight's program is "all about leadership" and mused on the historic nature of Kamala Harris's nomination for vice president.

Tracee Ellis Ross is on hosting duties for the second day of the Democratic National Convention tonight. Following an opening keynote address from the party's rising stars, the Black-ish actress and Emmy nominee kicked off the night with a speech about the importance of leadership and Kamala Harris's nomination for vice president.

"Tonight is all about leadership," Ross began. "This unprecedented moment calls for leadership. Steady, inclusive leadership. Driven by people who understand that our democracy is based on the value of each and every one of us being treated with dignity and respect. Leaders who respond to the needs of hard-working Americans who, right this minute, are unable to pay rent, put food on the table, and keep their loved ones safe.

"As a Black woman, I find myself at a crucial intersection in American politics. For far too long, Black female leadership has been utilized without being acknowledged or valued. But, we are turning the tide. Hello, Kamala."

Harris broke barriers last week as the first Black woman and South Asian woman on a major presidential party ticket. But Ross noted that the California senator is just one of many leaders today representing marginalized communities.

"Her nomination is historic for anyone who believes in 'we the people,'" Ross continued. "Like Senator Harris and many we saw in the keynote, today's leaders emerged from communities that have long been underrepresented. They're charting new paths in the spirit of Shirley Chisholm, Charlotta Bass, Fannie Lou Hamer, and John Lewis. They get in good trouble, necessary trouble otherwise ignored, elevating our nation, and changing the course of our lives for the better."

And, like most guests at the DNC this year, Ross co-signed the Biden-Harris ticket, praising the duo for "heeding voices from within the movement for racial justice, [and] listening to the people, and acting with empathy and compassion to reflect our shared humanity."

Speakers tonight include President Bill Clinton, Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, and Dr. Jill Biden.

Ross dressed elegantly for the hosting televised event, wearing a draped maroon Proenza Schouler dress, layered hoop earrings, and patent black pumps.

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