As a producer, composer, music arranger, actor, singer, civil rights activist, and humanitarian, Harry Belafonte is no stranger to public speaking. Many would say he has always been outspoken, and his recent performance was in a class of its own.
His speech served as a reminder that when you believe in your message and feel compelled to inspire your audience, your passion becomes infectious. Notably, you don’t need notes, and age is irrelevant.
A Poised Opening
Belafonte began his speech by thanking friends and fellow actors; after the first 90 seconds, he paused for six seconds. This pause set the stage for him to seize his audience’s full attention.
He opened with a thought-provoking statement:
“America has come a long way since Hollywood in 1915 gave the world the film ‘Birth of a Nation.’ By all measures, this cinematic work was considered the greatest film ever made. The power of moving pictures to impact human behavior was never more evident than when American citizens, influenced by this film, went on a murderous rampage. Races were set against one another, and blood flowed in our streets.”
Crafting the Message
As an eloquent rhetorician, Belafonte crafts his message with care. He shares a poignant memory from his childhood, drawing listeners in closer:
“Tarzan was a sight to see, this porcelain Adonis, this white liberator who could swing from tree to tree, saving Africa from a population viewed as inept and governed by ancient superstitions.”
A Memorable Call to Action
From a brilliant opening to a powerful conclusion, Belafonte urged Hollywood to change its ways:
“I really wish I could be around for the rest of this century to see what Hollywood accomplishes. Maybe, just maybe, it could be civilization’s game changer. As Paul Robeson said, artists are the radical voice of civilization. Each of you in this room could change the way our global humanity perceives itself.”
This compelling call to action is a reflection of the change he has championed, especially as an early supporter of the civil rights movement in the 1950s.
Connecting with Passion
Age is no more than a number—what truly matters is the connection you create with your audience. Belafonte’s passion and belief serve as catalysts for that connection, beautifully illustrated throughout his poignant speech.
If you need help with your public speaking skills:
– Book yourself onto a powerful public speaking course.
– Invest in some really good one to one public speaking coaching.
– Get yourself some excellent presentation training
Image courtesy of Canva.com
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