On Saturday night, Feb. 22, Devin Freeman was on-stage in front of a room full of celebrities in Pasadena, California.
Freeman, a senior political science major at North Carolina Central University(NCCU), took part in the NAACP Image Awards, an annual event noting excellence in movies, television, recording, literature and podcast. His role was to introduce NAACP Chair Leon Russell, who in turn issued an award to former Vice President Kamala Harris.
“I was called by Harris’ campaign last week,” Freeman said. “They want to continue to uplift youth and incorporate them in the things she does.”
During his minute on stage, Freeman introduced himself, mentioned he attended NCCU (applause from part of the audience gave him an opening to call out ‘Eagle Pride: Amplified’) and briefly spoke about Harris before introducing Russell.
Back in his seat in the audience, he got a shout-out from Harris.
“To Devin, I’m so proud of you,” said Harris from stage. “I know the future of our country is bright when I look at you.”
“I wasn’t expecting that,” Freeman said.
A couple days later, Freeman reflected on the event.
“It was crazy,” he said. “I’ve never spoken to that many people at one time.”
There were an estimated 300 people in attendance, many of them celebrities. Among others, Freeman met Halle Berry, Kerry Washington, Method Man, LL Cool J, the cast of “Bel-Air”, the producers of “The Shop” and Cynthia Erivo from “Wicked.” The show was also broadcast on BET.
Backstage after the awards, Freeman spoke to Harris and former Second Gentleman Doug Emhoff.
“She asked me how school was going,” Freeman said.
This was not the first time Freeman has kept company with holders of national office. During Harris’ run for president, he spoke at a Durham event with Minnesota Governor Tim Walz and former President Bill Clinton.
Freeman has participated in both the campus chapter and North Carolina chapter of the NAACP for four years. In the campus chapter, he has served as secretary, vice president and president.
He is scheduled to graduate in May.