00:00Hey there, I am gospel recording artist Erica Campbell, and we want to take a moment to thank
00:11the everyday people on the front line who are the essential heroes. During this COVID-19 pandemic,
00:18our world is, it feels like a crazy place, but because of beautiful people like you,
00:24we are making it through. So Myesha Taylor, dedicated advocate for health equity and increasing
00:30the diversity in our nation's physician workforce. Christian Larby, Christian is a black man on the
00:37front lines fighting for all lives with the strength of Christ. Gladys Oluwatu Casey is a
00:45stylish mom and nurse who loves to keep herself visible 24-7. Vanessa Cooley, Vanessa
00:53stepped up to the challenge and cared for her patients as if they were her own family.
01:00Thomas L. Harris III, he is always working, mind, body, and soul.
01:10Michelle Amarte, she is still here, still going strong. Samaj Boyd, Samaj is a hardworking man
01:19who takes pride in his job. Mayor Latoya Cantrell, the mayor of the beautiful city of New Orleans,
01:29working hard for the well-being of her constituents. We wish we were with you in New Orleans, but we know
01:36you are doing some beautiful work where you are. Essence family, I would like to thank you so much
01:42for honoring me with this award, an essential hero on behalf of the citizens of the city of New Orleans.
01:50And as I accept this award, know that I'm doing so, recognizing the hardworking men and women
01:59who have been on the front lines responding to this pandemic, but also for those lives that we were
02:06unable to say, but know that they will continue to live on through us because their memories are part
02:15of the legacy and the fabric of the city of New Orleans. You are all essential heroes. Essence,
02:22the community, and I thank you so much for your dedication and your hard work. Your work is essential.
02:28We love you. We are praying for you. Congratulations.
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