Black Women Leaders Rally Behind Kamala Harris: Focus Amid Attacks
As the final stretch of the presidential campaign approaches, Black women leaders are stepping up to support Vice President Kamala Harris. They are urging her to stay focused and not get distracted by personal attacks. The message is clear: keep the focus on policy and progress.
A Moment of Reflection at the Democratic National Convention
During the Democratic National Convention, actress Kerry Washington highlighted the personal attacks Harris has faced. Washington pointed out the confusion some people have about Harris’s name but stressed that confusion should never cross into disrespect.
- Joy and Resolve: Washington’s onstage appearance with Harris’ great-nieces was a nod to the convention’s themes of joy and unity, contrasting sharply with the darker side of the campaign trail.
The Challenges Faced by Black Women in Politics
For many women of colour, especially those running for office, such attacks are a familiar obstacle. Val Demings, a former US Congresswoman from Florida, reflected on her own experiences:
- Personal Attacks: “When I have a job to do, you can call me every name in the book – that does not define me,” Demings said. She emphasised that her work for the people defines her, not the attacks.
The Campaign’s Final Sprint: What Lies Ahead
With the end of the Democratic convention, the campaign is entering a crucial 74-day sprint towards Election Day. As the pressure mounts, Harris is expected to lay out her policies more clearly, including during the upcoming debates.
- Avoiding Distractions: Black women leaders advise Harris to avoid getting bogged down by personal attacks. Their guidance is to focus on policy and achievements.
Michelle Obama’s Powerful Address
Former First Lady Michelle Obama addressed these concerns in her convention speech. She drew parallels between the attacks on Harris and the false conspiracy theories about President Obama’s birthplace:
- Racist and Misogynistic Lies: Obama condemned the use of racist and misogynistic attacks as a substitute for meaningful policy discussion, echoing her own experiences with similar tactics.
Trump’s Personal Attacks and Policy Focus
In response to the attacks, former President Donald Trump’s allies have urged him to focus on policy rather than personal attacks.
- Governor Chris Sununu’s Advice: Sununu suggested that Trump should concentrate on policies to win votes rather than engaging in personal attacks.
- Trump Campaign’s Response: The Trump campaign has dismissed criticisms as attempts to distract from Harris’s policy shortcomings, arguing that Harris’s policies are lacking.
Harris’s Economic Proposal and Campaign Strategy
Recently, Harris unveiled a detailed economic proposal aimed at providing tax relief to over 100 million Americans. However, her campaign has faced criticism for not providing comprehensive policy details on their website or engaging in in-depth interviews.
- Policy Presentation: Critics have pointed out that Harris’s policy agenda is not fully detailed, leading to calls for more transparency and engagement.
Staying Focused: Insights from Black Women Leaders
Black women who have run for office offer valuable advice to Harris:
- Jasmine Clark’s Perspective: Georgia State Rep. Jasmine Clark emphasised the importance of not letting opponents get into one’s head with attacks.
- A’shanti Gholar’s Advice: Gholar, president of Emerge, highlighted the need for candidates to stay focused and not let sexism and racism derail their campaigns.
Support Systems for Women Candidates
Gholar also noted that part of the support for women candidates includes role-playing potential attacks and crafting effective responses. The goal is to help candidates remain focused on their message and policy.
- Training and Support: Emerge provides training and support to help candidates navigate the complexities of political attacks and maintain their focus on key issues.
Andrea Stewart-Cousins’ Endorsement
Andrea Stewart-Cousins, the New York Senate Majority Leader, praised Harris for her focus and measured responses:
- Historical Significance: Stewart-Cousins noted that Harris represents the dreams and aspirations of past trailblazers like Shirley Chisholm and Hillary Clinton. Harris’s ability to stay focused and measured under pressure is seen as a testament to her leadership.
Conclusion: Moving Forward with Purpose
As the campaign heats up, the support from Black women leaders highlights a crucial aspect of Harris’s strategy: staying focused on policy and progress despite personal attacks.
- Ongoing Support: The collective advice from these leaders underscores the importance of maintaining a clear focus and not getting sidetracked by negativity.
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