Kamala Harris is the presidential nominee the Democratic Party has been waiting for -- a leader with a proven track record and bold visions for a better America.
Harris embodies the future, one that relentlessly pursues justice, equity, and opportunity for all. With a blend of experience, resilience, and a deep commitment to fairness, her career as a public servant – from district attorney to U.S. senator and vice president - demonstrates her unwavering dedication to the American people.
Harris has consistently showcased her aptitude for navigating complex legislative landscapes and her ability to lead with integrity and fight for policies that uplift all communities. She has consistently proven her commitment to addressing the pressing issues of our time, from systemic racism and criminal justice reform to climate change and healthcare access. As vice president, she has demonstrated remarkable leadership, working to support President Biden's agenda and advocating for policies that benefit everyone, particularly those historically marginalized.
Her significance goes beyond her historic role as the first female vice president and the highest-ranking woman of color in U.S. history. Her presence symbolizes progress, representation, and inclusive politics. Having a Black woman as a presidential candidate is not only reinvigorating a significant portion of the voter base, particularly women and other historically marginalized groups, but it also reaffirms the important strides being made to diversify the political landscape.
Having a Black woman presidential candidate might also begin to dispel the disheartening message that the contributions and potential of women of color are perpetually in question, no matter their qualifications or achievements. By backing Harris, the political establishment must recognize the importance of inclusivity and the critical role of diverse voices in shaping a more equitable future. Beyond identity politics, her candidacy is about acknowledging and nurturing the vast talent and perspectives leaders like Harris bring.
Even Donald Trump has recognized the imperative to address inclusivity with his recent comments about migrants stealing “Black jobs” appearing as superficial attempts to garner support without addressing the root causes of inequality. Black labor has long been exploited, from the forced labor of enslavement to the limited opportunities during the Jim Crow era and beyond. This history casts a long shadow on the types of jobs deemed acceptable or attainable for Black Americans. Even favorable employment rates often reflect a disproportionate concentration in sectors traditionally marked by lower wages and limited upward mobility, such as service industries and manual labor.
The reality is, this is not just about numbers; it’s about the quality of jobs, access to growth opportunities, and fair wages. Employment figures alone don't accurately depict economic health if those jobs don’t provide meaningful wages, benefits, or stability. An abundance of low-wage, part-time jobs does little to lift individuals out of poverty or close the wealth gap that starkly divides Black Americans from their white counterparts.
Trump's rhetoric fails to address systemic barriers, such as educational inequities and discriminatory hiring practices, which significantly hinder Black employment prospects and economic progression, serving as a stark reminder of these deep-seated inequities and inadvertently suggesting that Black Americans should be content with any job, regardless of quality or prospects. This undermines the dignity and aspirations of Black workers and perpetuates a cycle of economic disparity, trapping generations in a struggle for genuine economic justice and representation in higher-paying, stable careers.
Addressing these issues with the seriousness they deserve is imperative because they impact real lives, families, and futures. Ignoring this context allows for a dangerous narrative that overlooks the structural changes required to achieve true equality.
In this context, and the broader Democratic Party values, Harris is exactly what the party needs to effectively position itself as the champion of progressive values, diversity, and social justice. Harris embodies these ideals and resonates with a broad cross-section of the electorate seeking genuine change and representation. Harris brings with her the potential to shake up our democracy, to re-engage disenchanted voters, and to lead a strong, united party capable of making real change.
True progress hinges on embracing and empowering leaders like Harris, whose journey and vision align with the aspirations of a diverse and dynamic nation.
Recognizing and supporting Kamala Harris’ leadership is crucial for inspiring and maintaining the trust and enthusiasm of the electorate who believe in a forward-thinking, inclusive America.
In a head-to-head contest with Donald Trump, Harris presents the best chance to win, thanks to her record, her ability to unite diverse groups and her compelling vision for the nation's future. She represents the embodiment of change, progress, and hope and her presidency would propel the United States toward a more inclusive and just society.
Now, more than ever, America needs a leader who understands the complexities of our time and is ready to take decisive action from day one to deliver the change Americans desperately seek. Harris is that leader.
It's time for us to rally behind her and make history once again.
Dr. Kerry Mitchell Brown, founder of KMB, is an equity strategist who specializes in organizational transformation.
Kerry Mitchell Brown, Ph. D.
