Sherri Shepherd’s Journey to Civic Engagement: The Impact of “The View”
Sherri Shepherd, a beloved figure in television and comedy, has recently opened up about a transformative moment in her life—one that led her to recognize the power of voting. This revelation, as shared on “The Jamie Kern Lima Show,” highlights the surprising role her time on “The View” played in her journey toward civic engagement.
The Early Years: A Faith-Based Perspective
Growing up as a Jehovah’s Witness, Shepherd lived in a world where political involvement was largely discouraged. The church’s teachings stressed political neutrality, leaving her with little knowledge of the political landscape. “All I knew was what the church taught me,” she reflected. “I didn’t think for myself. I just knew what the church had taught me or what I had learned when I was a Witness.” This upbringing created a bubble that distanced her from political discourse, which she believed was outside her purview.
Entering the Spotlight: A Catalyst for Change
Sherri’s entry into the spotlight as a cohost on “The View” served as a pivotal turning point in her life. During her inaugural year in 2008, she shared that it would be her first time casting a vote. This was a significant moment, as her previous lack of political engagement shifted dramatically in this new environment.
Barbara Walters: A Guiding Light
While on “The View,” Shepherd received an unexpected nudge from the iconic Barbara Walters. Recognizing her cohost’s political naiveté, Walters delivered the memorable advice: “Dear, read a book.” This simple yet profound statement ignited something within Shepherd. It pointed her toward a new path—one where she could educate herself and become a more informed citizen.
Broadening Horizons: The Power of Exposure
Shepherd credits her personal growth to the exposure she gained through her platform. “What I realized is sometimes we have to get out of where we live, we have to go travel the world, we have to meet people that are different from us,” she noted. This realization—that engaging with diverse perspectives can combat prejudice and open minds—has been a cornerstone of her advocacy for civic engagement.
Support From Fellow Cohorts
In addition to Walters’ mentorship, Shepherd’s current cohosts, Joy Behar and Whoopi Goldberg, have also played significant roles in shaping her political views. Goldberg’s words resonated deeply with her: “Sherri, the moment you open your mouth, half the world is going to hate you. So go by what you feel and what you think.” This advice empowered Shepherd to lean into her beliefs, even when they diverged from popular opinion.
Embracing Challenges and Learning from Setbacks
Reflecting on her journey, Shepherd emphasizes resilience. She encourages others to see perceived failures as opportunities for growth. “When you feel like you fail… I feel like, don’t look at it as failure. Just get back up and fix or course correct.” This mindset has not only shaped her approach to voting but has also influenced her overall outlook on life.
Final Thoughts on Civic Responsibility
Sherri Shepherd’s story is a testament to the transformative power of community and dialogue. Her evolution from political disengagement to active voter showcases the importance of stepping out of one’s comfort zone. Through her experiences on “The View,” she not only found her voice but also inspired others to engage with the world around them critically and thoughtfully.