Taraji P. Henson used her platform as host of the 2024 BET Awards to encourage viewers to vote.

Taraji P. Henson used her platform as host of the 2024 BET Awards to encourage viewers to vote.

Maybe it takes someone like Taraji P. Henson to get folks fired up about the dismantling of democracy.

We've seen celebrities discuss political issues on their social media accounts, but rarely are they as intensely outspoken in Hollywood settings. That takes another level of courage. Henson, who has been frank about the nation's mental health crisis and pay inequities in Hollywood, used her platform as host of the BET Awards on Sunday to urge people to vote and educate themselves on the issues.

"Show up and show out when it’s time to vote because it’s not just about the presidential election, you guys. It’s time for us to play chess, not checkers. It’s about making decisions that will affect us as human beings. Our careers, our next generations to come. Did you know that it is now a crime to be homeless? Pay attention. It’s not a secret: Look it........

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