Asian American female congressional leaders and activists recently came together to show their support for Kamala Harris' candidacy. They believe she is the best candidate to unite and lead the Democratic Party in the upcoming election against Donald Trump.
The virtual call, organized by Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander women, was a huge success, raising over $100,000 in donations for the Harris campaign and attracting more than 1,000 participants. Prominent speakers at the event included Reps. Grace Meng, Judy Chu, Pramila Jayapal, Sen. Mazie Horono, acting Labor Secretary Julie Su, Ambassador Chantale Wong, and abortion rights leader Mini Timmaraju.
One of the key points emphasized during the call was Harris' historic position as the first Asian and Black woman to lead a presidential ticket. The speakers also highlighted the significant influence of the Asian voting bloc in elections.
Rep. Grace Meng, who chairs the political arm of the AAPI Congressional Caucus, expressed pride in supporting Vice President Harris, citing the progress made by the Biden-Harris administration for AANHPI communities. Rep. Judy Chu recalled Harris' empathy in consoling the Asian-majority community of Monterey Park, California, after a tragic mass shooting during the city's Lunar New Year celebration last year.
Sen. Mazie Horono, who served on the Senate Judiciary Committee with Harris, praised her persistence, intelligence, commitment, and effectiveness, qualities she believes Harris will bring to the presidency. Horono also highlighted the racist and sexist attacks Harris has faced, urging the AAPI community to push back against such marginalization.
The call, which lasted nearly two hours, was briefly interrupted to show the president's address from the Oval Office.