Old white men can't keep women of colour down

President Joe Biden announced earlier this month that he will not be running for re-election in 2024, paving the way for a new, diverse Democratic nominee. Vice President Kamala Harris is now a strong contender for the Democratic nomination, and her historic vice presidency could become a groundbreaking presidency.

As the first Black and South Asian woman to be elected VP, Harris has already broken barriers. Born to an Indian mother and Jamaican father in 1964, Harris embodies the diversity of America. Her cultural heritage and life experience bring a much-needed perspective to U.S. politics, offering a voice to communities that have long been underrepresented.

Harris' political career is impressive, with endorsements from prominent leaders, including former President Bill Clinton and Hillary Clinton. As a U.S. Senator from California and the state's Attorney General, she has proven her capability and commitment to public service.

Unfortunately, Trump, in a recent interview, spread false claims about Harris, demonstrating his bigoted and ignorant mindset. He lied about Harris' academic achievements, claiming she failed the California bar exam. This is a malicious attempt to discredit her intelligence and professional success. Harris has been open about not passing on her first try, but she persevered and passed the following year, a testament to her determination.

Trump's comments didn't stop there; he also questioned Harris' ethnicity, stating, "I didn't know she was Black until a number of years ago when she happened to turn Black, and now she wants to be known as Black." This offensive statement erases Harris' biracial identity and denies her agency in how she chooses to identify. It is a classic example of white patriarchy attempting to control the narrative and invalidate the identities of people of colour.

Harris' connection to the Black community is deep-rooted. She attended Howard University, an HBCU, and was a member of the Alpha Kappa Alpha sorority, advocating for and engaging with the Black community. Her political campaign further solidified this connection, as she actively appealed to Black leaders and voters, understanding their unique needs and perspectives.

The racist and sexist attacks by Trump and other conservative figures will not deter Harris or the Democratic Party. Her resilience and qualifications make her an exceptional candidate, ready to lead a nation that desperately needs representation and progressive change.