The Imperative Election of Vice President Kamala Harris as President
NYS Assembly Member Inez E. Dickens
As the November elections approach, the stakes for our community and country could not be higher. I write to urge not only our readership but all of Harlem and beyond to recognize the pivotal moment we are facing—an opportunity to elect Vice President Kamala Harris as the first African American woman president of the United States.
- Advertisement -
Vice President Harris’s candidacy is not just a historical milestone; it is a beacon of progressive leadership and a testament to the strides we have made toward inclusivity and justice. Her leadership promises to advance the causes that are fundamental to our well-being—healthcare, education, economic equity, and criminal justice reform.
This election, however, is about more than making history. It is about safeguarding our future. The contrast between Vice President Harris and her main contender, Donald Trump, could not be starker. The potential re-election of Donald Trump poses a direct threat to the freedoms and rights for which we have tirelessly fought. His previous policies have shown a disregard for the pressing issues that disproportionately affect African Americans and other marginalized communities.
It is, therefore, imperative that African Americans in Harlem and across the nation unite as never before. The call to action is clear: we must mobilize, educate, and turn out to vote in unprecedented numbers. The voices of African American men and especially women must be heard loud and clear in this election. Our unity is our strength, and our vote is our voice.
Let us not be complacent. Let us rally our neighbors, friends, and family. Let every discussion in our homes, places of worship, and community centers underscore the urgency of this election. Harlem must lead the charge, demonstrating that our commitment to democracy and equality is unwavering.
This November, let us stand together to elect Vice President Kamala Harris, not just for the historical significance, but for the security and freedom of future generations. Our collective action can secure a presidency that reflects our values and aspirations.
Together, we can make history while protecting our future.
Hazel Dukes, President, NAACP NEW YORK STATE CONFERENCE
“Today, I am extremely proud to lend my unwavering support to our next President of the United States, Vice President Kamala Harris. Vice President Harris’s candidacy represents a beacon of hope and a promise of a brighter future for our nation. There is an undeniable excitement in our party and across this great country about Vice President Harris’s candidacy. I wholeheartedly applaud the historic grassroots effort we are witnessing, driven by a shared vision of progress and unity.
Throughout my career, I have had the privilege of serving on several transition teams, including that of Mayor Eric Adams. One of the highlights of my career was swearing in the first female Governor of the State of New York, Kathy Hochul. Today, as we stand here together, we are poised to make another historic moment by sending Vice President Kamala Harris back to Washington, D.C., as the next President of the United States.
She is our nominee, our commander in chief. Now, it is up to us to make this vision a reality. We must stroll to the poll, get out, and vote. Together, we can make history once again and ensure that our nation continues to move forward toward justice, equality, and opportunity for all.”
Yvonne Graham, Office of the Brooklyn Borough President
Vice President Kamala Harris’s life story and her career trajectory towards becoming the first female president of the United States of America is a phenomenon whose time has come. Her journey is testament to the countless phenomenal women throughout our history who have exemplified strength, tenacity, courage and grit in carving out the path she must travel, in defining the glass ceiling she must shatter, and the victory she must achieve in claiming her seat at the table, this time at the head of the table.
Beyond race and class and gender, Vice President Harris is brilliant. She is capable and laser-focused, and her unique abilities, leadership and political skills are well honed to assume the position of the presidency. During these challenging times we need an individual of her caliber who is equipped to positively influence peoples’ lives and America’s fate.
As a woman, a person of color and an immigrant I could not be more proud of her, but the race is not yet won and we cannot take anything for granted. We must individually and collectively do all we can to make our voices heard and ensure that our votes are counted. The many girls and young women who are growing up and who are struggling with issues of independence and self-esteem need a President Kamala Harris to show them that where they are today is nothing compared to the endless possibilities that await them.
We are all with Her!
The Effect of Kamala Harris’s Potential Nomination for President
Dorret Aarons (Jamaican/American)
Kamala Harris’s potential nomination for President of the United States would represent a historic and transformative moment in American politics. As a Black woman of Jamaican and Indian descent, her candidacy carries significant implications for representation, identity, and policy impact, particularly for individuals of Caribbean heritage and the broader Black community.
The impact on representation and identity may be considered a historical milestone. Kamala Harris’s candidacy will mark a groundbreaking achievement in U.S political history. As the first Black woman and person of Jamaican and South Asian heritage to seek the highest office in the land, the nomination would embody a powerful symbol of progress and inclusivity in American democracy.
For Black women and Caribbean Americans, Harris’s potential nomination provides a source of inspiration and aspiration. Her journey to the presidency could serve as a beacon of possibility, demonstrating that individuals from diverse backgrounds can rise to the highest echelons of leadership. This may encourage greater participation and ambition within these communities.
Her candidacy affirms the value of diverse cultural backgrounds in shaping national policy and leadership. Her potential presidency would validate the experiences and contributions of Black and Caribbean communities, reinforcing their integral role in the American social and political tapestry
Mrs. Harris’s presidency could lead to a heightened focus on policies that affect Minorities particularly, Black and Caribbean American communities. Her platform may emphasize issues such as racial justice, economic equity, immigration reform, and healthcare access, potentially driving significant reforms in these areas.
Her presidency would bring increased visibility to the challenges and contributions of marginalized communities. Her leadership could amplify calls for policy changes that address systemic inequalities, thus fostering a more inclusive and equitable society.
The historic nature of Mrs. Harris’ candidacy comes with heightened expectations. There may be pressure for her to address a wide range of issues specific to her identity, while also managing broader national concerns. Balancing these demands could be a significant challenge.
Her dual heritage—Jamaican and South Asian—places her in a unique position but also subjects her to diverse and sometimes conflicting expectations. She may face scrutiny from various sides, requiring her to navigate complex identity dynamics while striving to meet the needs of a diverse electorate.
In conclusion, Kamala Harris’s potential nomination for President represents a transformative moment in American politics, with profound implications for representation, policy, and identity. For Black women and Caribbean Americans, her candidacy would be a powerful symbol of progress and possibility. While there are challenges to navigate, her presidency could drive significant advancements in addressing the needs of marginalized communities and fostering a more inclusive society.
