Hollywood icon Taraji P. Henson brought heartfelt wisdom and cultural resonance to the 2025 HBCU graduation ceremony of Spelman College in Atlanta Sunday, delivering a keynote speech that deeply moved the audience of graduates, families, and faculty. As an award-winning actress, activist, and advocate for mental health, Henson used her platform not just to inspire, but to connect the graduating class to their African roots and the power of communal healing.One of the most profound moments of her speech centered around an African ritual from the Babemba tribe of South Africa, which she shared as a metaphor for resilience and collective compassion.“When a person acts irresponsibly or harmfully,” Henson explained, “they are placed in the center of the village, surrounded by every woman, man, and child, who, for two days, speak only positive affirmations, reminding that person of their good deeds and true nature.”
