Michelle Obama Takes Part in Annual Roots Picnic That Will Be Held Virtually This Year

Former First Lady Michelle Obama has had quite a lot to do, even amid the lockdown. It would appear that she's just landed her next engagement.

Earlier this week, the former first lady confirmed, in a tweet, that she would be co-hosting this year's edition of "The Roots Picnic." The event will be virtual, as physical gatherings still aren't possible.

The Roots Picnic is a voter registration initiative that takes place in Philadelphia every summer. The event is hosted by The Roots, one of the most famous bands in the city. While it has held for the past 12 years, this will be the first time that it will be going virtual.

According to the program brochure, the organizers had planned to hold the picnic at Mann, Fairmount Park. However, like everyone else, they've had to improvise.

Michelle will be partnering with the organizers through "When We All Vote," a nonpartisan democratic organization that she started. In her tweet, she said:

"Couldn't be more excited that @whenweallvote is teaming up to co-host @TheRoots Picnic on June 27!"

The event will also have some other appearances. These include artists like Kirk Franklin, Roddy Ricch, SZA, H.E.R., and Lil' Baby. Actors Tom Hanks, Kerry Washington, and Lin-Manuel Miranda will appear in the program, amongst others.

Michelle is also focusing on encouraging people to vote.

The Roots clinic is just the latest in the string of events that Michelle has held. Recently, she appeared on MTV's "Prom-Athon," a virtual dance party for the class of 2020 members who couldn't celebrate prom.

The event was a partnership between MTV and When We All Vote as well. In her speech, she said in part: "Hey, Class of 2020! Look, I know that none of you planned on missing out on so many senior year milestones… But I am so proud of what I've seen from you all."

She went on to encourage everyone to have fun and enjoy themselves. As explained, they've deserved the opportunity to do so. Michelle is also focusing on encouraging people to vote. In her speech, she urged viewers to register, vote, and reach out to others to do the same.

With many schools and companies offering speeches for the class of 2020, Michelle has joined on the train. The Prom-Athon was also a nice addition.

Michelle has read books virtually for children stuck at home through her program, "READ ALONG with Michelle Obama." She partnered with PBS Kids on that one.