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An unexpected twist at the Al Smith charity dinner
The annual Al Smith charity dinner is typically a reserved event, albeit for a noble cause, supporting Catholic Charities. However, this year’s virtual format brought unexpected humor and poignancy with a special guest appearance that no one saw coming.
Kamala Harris’ impactful virtual speech
Vice President Kamala Harris was originally set to attend the dinner in person but had to adjust her plans due to campaign commitments in Wisconsin. Despite her physical absence, she seized the opportunity to deliver a message rich in both wit and significance, thanks in part to the eccentric Molly Shannon.
Mary Katherine Gallagher makes a surprise entrance
Just as Harris began her speech, the scene took a comedic turn. Molly Shannon’s beloved character, Mary Katherine Gallagher, from Saturday Night Live in the 1990s, made an unexpected entrance, running across the screen behind Harris. The Vice President, momentarily perplexed, asked, “Who was that?”
Gallagher, the awkward yet endearing Catholic schoolgirl, quickly introduced herself, proclaiming, “I just want to say that I’m Catholic and tonight is one of the biggest dinners next to the Last Supper.”
Quirky exchanges and heartfelt messages
Harris, maintaining her composure, acknowledged the importance of the dinner and expressed her pride in being part of the tradition. She then inquired if Gallagher had any advice for her speech. Gallagher responded with an impromptu monologue from one of her favorite TV shows, emphasizing women’s representation:
“Don’t you see man, we need a woman to represent us. A woman brings more heart, more compassion, and think how smart she must be to become a top contender in a field dominated by men. It’s time for a woman bro, and with this woman, we can fly.”
When Harris, visibly puzzled, asked about the origin of the monologue, Gallagher quipped, “Oh, that’s from House of the Dragon now streaming on HBO Max.”
The importance of honesty and tact
Harris, continuing the light-hearted dialogue, sought guidance on any topics to avoid during her speech. Gallagher advised, with a blend of humor and reverence, “Well, don’t lie. Just so you know, there will be a fact-checker there tonight… Jesus. And maybe don’t say anything negative about Catholics.”
With a firm yet playful response, Harris assured, “I would never do that no matter where I was. That would be like criticizing Detroit in Detroit,” referring to recent political remarks.
A final poignant exchange
Before concluding her lively interaction with Gallagher, Harris was asked one final, pointed question: “Does it bother you that that Trump guy insults you all the time because it really bothers my friends?”
In a moment of genuine reflection, Harris replied, “Oh Mary Katherine, it’s very important to always remember you should never let anyone tell you who you are. You tell them who you are.”
True to her quirky nature, Gallagher added, “Hater’s going to hate hate hate, shake it off,” channeling Taylor Swift’s famous lyrics.
The concluding message
Refocusing on the dinner’s purpose, Harris highlighted the event’s significance: “The Al Smith dinner provides a rare opportunity to set aside partisanship and come together to do some good by supporting the tremendous charitable work of the Catholic Church. The church cares for the sick and feeds the hungry, supports families with housing and education, and in times of disaster, provides not only essential supplies but also, and so importantly, a sense of hope.”
Drawing from the Gospel of Luke, she emphasized that faith has the power to guide and illuminate, encouraging everyone to seek understanding and common ground. In honor of Al Smith, she urged a recommitment to building a better future with faith in God, country, and each other.
Reflections on the event
Adding another layer to the evening, former President Donald Trump also attended the dinner, maintaining the event’s bipartisan tradition and its mission to raise millions of dollars for Catholic charities.
This year’s Al Smith charity dinner was not only a moment for serious reflection and impactful messages but also a reminder that even the most solemn occasions can benefit from a touch of humor and surprise.
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