Kerry Washington Brings Kamala Harris’ Grandnieces on Stage to Give a Simple Lesson on Pronouncing Her Name

Mar. 15, 2025

Kerry Washingtoncalled in a couple of reinforcements for a lesson on how to properly pronounce Vice PresidentKamala Harris’ name at theDemocratic National Conventionin Chicago on Thursday, Aug. 22.

The actress, 47, who reunited with herScandalcostar Tony Goldwynearlier in the night, brought her star power to the stage at the DNC with help from Harris’ great-nieces Amara and Leela.

“It’s come to my attention that there are some folks who struggle, or pretend to struggle, with the proper pronunciation of our future president’s name,” Washington said in support of Harris, 59, before she accepted the Democratic Party’s nomination for president.

Kerry Washington speaks at the Democratic National Convention.SAUL LOEB/AFP via Getty

SAUL LOEB/AFP via Getty

“So hear me out: Confusion is understandable. Disrespect is not.”

After pausing for applause from the audience, theLittle Fires Everywherestar said she would “help everyone get it right.”

The girls introduced themselves as Amara Ajagu and “her little sister” Leela Ajagu,Harris’ great-nieces. They were at the DNC “to teach you how to say our auntie’s name," they said.

Kerry Washington speaks on stage with Democratic presidential candidate, U.S. Vice President Kamala Harris' grandnieces Amara (R) and Leela (L) during the final day of the Democratic National Convention.Andrew Harnik/Getty

Andrew Harnik/Getty

According to Amara, the best way to say the first part of Harris' name is to say “comma, like a comma in a sentence.”

Next was Leela, who said the second half of her aunt’s name was “luh” as if you were singing the scales of a song. The audience cheered in support of the kids.

Washington then kneeled to be the same height as the sisters.

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“Put it together and you get — ” she paused to give the girls a chance to join in, in unison: “Kamala!”

TheUnPrisonedactress suggested that everyone come together to practice saying Harris’ name the correct way with the girls’ help. The side closest to Amara said “Comma,” while Leela’s side said “Luh.”

After several chants of “Comma-Luh” from the room, Washington added, “for president!”

Harris’ running mateTim Walzseemingly enjoyed the demonstration as he could be seen mouthing “how cute” to the people sitting next to him.

Though Washington did not single out anyone in particular on Thursday, last week, Republican Rep. Nancy Macemade headlinesfor her repeatedly mispronouncing Harris’ first name while on CNN.

source: people.com