At Sunday’s BET Awards, a cornerstone of Black culture, politics and the impending November election took center stage with notable intensity.

Vice President Kamala Harris made a significant virtual appearance alongside host Taraji P. Henson, stressing the critical imperative of voting in the upcoming election. Harris emphasized safeguarding voting rights, reproductive freedoms, LGBTQ rights, and addressing the urgent issue of gun violence.

“This moment carries immense significance. While the majority of us stand for freedom and equality, these extremists, as Kendrick Lamar puts it, ‘they not like us,’” Harris articulated, weaving in a reference to Lamar’s track "Not Like Us."

In a culturally resonant retort, Henson chimed in with her own hip-hop-infused commentary: “They out here tryna take away Pride, Plan B, and Planned Parenthood but protecting pistols. If you ask me, they pushin’ the wrong Ps,” a nod to Gunna, Young Thug, and Future’s anthem “pushin P.”

These politically charged moments at the BET Awards align with ongoing activism from hip-hop and R&B artists like Sexyy Red, Kehlani, and Ot7 Quanny. Their efforts reflect a broader trend where presidential candidates such as Donald Trump and Joe Biden actively court the support of hip-hop artists to sway pivotal young Black voters.

Corey Miles, an associate professor specializing in sociology and Africana studies at Tulane University, underscored the significance of these cultural-political intersections: “Political moments like these are crucial because cultural spheres have always been arenas for political engagement.”

Miles noted the delicate balance required in these settings, where nuanced critiques and artistic expressions can often resonate more profoundly than straightforward political messages alone.

Trump has actively sought endorsements from hip-hop luminaries like Sexyy Red, Lil Wayne, Kodak Black, and Ye, leveraging their influence to bolster his electoral prospects. His approach includes appearances with rappers such as Sada Baby and Ot7 Quanny at voter outreach events, highlighting policy actions like presidential pardons and economic stimulus measures.

Conversely, Biden has engaged with popular cultural moments, such as Kendrick Lamar’s rap battles with Drake, to connect with younger voters. His campaign has also featured collaborations with hip-hop artists like Glorilla, showcasing efforts to align with diverse political voices within the genre.

The BET Awards, renowned for celebrating Black excellence and cultural impact, provided an influential platform for these political dialogues to unfold. Comedian B. Simone took aim at Trump’s recent “Black jobs” remark during a presidential debate, while rapper Vic Mensa joined influencers in a PSA urging voter participation.

Throughout the event, Henson wielded her platform to address pressing societal issues, including a Supreme Court ruling on homeless rights and apprehensions regarding right-wing policy agendas.

“I’m not here to instill fear,” Henson asserted. “I’m here to educate. We have three Supreme Court seats at stake, folks. We need those seats to safeguard our rights. To all those hesitant to vote, consider what’s at stake.”

Her impassioned call to action resonated deeply with viewers and participants alike, underscoring the pivotal role of the BET Awards as a cultural cornerstone and catalyst for robust political discourse within the Black community.