Moments of Joy: A visual look at the historic 2024 Democratic National Convention

Thousands of Democratic delegates officially made Vice President Kamala Harris their nominee in early August, and have now reiterated their choice in a celebratory roll call of states on August 20.

It was one of a number of unprecedented moments to come as part of the 2024 Democratic National Convention in Chicago, where Democrats solidified their nomination of the party’s first Black woman atop its ticket, as well as the first nominee of South Asian descent.

“As a prosecutor, when I had a case, I charged it not in the name of the victim. But in the name of ‘The People.’ For a simple reason. In our system of justice, a harm against any one of us is a harm against all of us.” – Vice President Kamala Harris

Delegates descended on Chicago after a topsy-turvy few weeks for their party, with President Joe Biden — amid growing calls to do so from within his own party — shuttering his campaign and throwing his support behind Harris.

“I promise to be a President for all Americans. You can always trust me to put country above party and self. To hold sacred America’s fundamental principles. From the rule of law. To free and fair elections. To the peaceful transfer of power. I will be a President who unites us around our highest aspirations.” – Vice President Kamala Harris

Amid a whirlwind battleground states tour with her new running mate, Minnesota Governor Tim Walz, Harris made an appearance in the arena on the convention’s opening night, giving brief remarks before watching speeches from box seats, then returning to the stage to hug President Biden following his speech, a political farewell of sorts.

“This election is not only the most important of our lives. It is one of the most important in the life of our nation. In many ways, Donald Trump is an unserious man. But the consequences of putting Donald Trump back in the White House are extremely serious.” – Vice President Kamala Harris

A convention that had initially been planned with President Biden as its top honoree instead became, at least on its first night, a way to honor the longtime Democratic politician as he passed the torch to Harris.

“America, we are not going back. We are charting. A. New. Way. Forward. Forward—to a future with a strong and growing middle class. Because we know a strong middle class has always been critical to America’s success. And building that middle class will be a defining goal of my presidency.” – Vice President Kamala Harris

Some delegates in the arena, many clad in state-specific regalia or matching attire, dabbed their eyes as they held “We love Joe” signs. President Biden, introduced by his daughter Ashley, also wiped his own eyes as he hugged her and took the stage.

This collection of images was taken between August 19 and 22, featuring highlights from several historic moments that happened during the convention, along with the many honored guests who attended.