Kamala Harris: The underrepresented see their future
Photo credit to Creative Commons
On the eve of November’s 2020 presidential election, millions of Americans sat in anticipation collectively waiting for the results. After what seemed like an enduring process tallying postal ballots, would we watch the achievements celebrated on Wednesday, Jan. 20: President-elect Joe Biden’s (D) inauguration into office. This formal transfer of power also translates to the woman beside him who will soon govern: Vice-President Kamala Harris.
This historic-changing moment for the new administration brings excitement, influence, and hope. As the first Black-Asian American woman, Harris becomes an inspiring voice for the people that see themselves in her in a trend towards freedom and justice.
Harris is vocal about the experiences people of color endure everyday, and has taken on work in response to these experiences. For example, she sponsored a bill that brings attention to financially supporting bias and anti-racism programs for Covid-19 workers. She’s also sponsored several bills related to immigration policies, including reuniting families, improving law enforcement’s actions towards unaccompanied alien children, and clarifying the rights of detainees.
Her vice presidency also signifies a move towards increasing representation and diversity in the highest ranks of government. It’s a barrier-breaking feat as a woman of color to prove yourself to underrepresented positions in which our voices are seldom lifted or ignored.
For someone like Harris to assume a leadership role in politics is not only in and of itself a vital asset, but more importantly brings hopes for an America where peace, togetherness, giving and more can be possible. Taken together, these values propel a continuing discussion for improving our country that can be reflected through the political decision-making and policies enacted.
And now the underrepresented collective can look at their leadership and know that they, too, can one day lead this nation to its full potential.