America did not elect Kamala Harris as its first female president this week, but many women across the country expressed gratitude for witnessing a fellow Black woman run for the highest office in the land. Despite Harris' loss on November 5, individuals like Janet Edwards from Washington, DC, emphasized the importance of not losing sight of future possibilities and remaining optimistic.
Women of color, who overwhelmingly supported Harris, felt a deep disappointment following the election results. This marked the second time in eight years that the highest glass ceiling remained intact, challenging the hopes of those aspiring to see the first female president elected in the United States.
While women have been running for president for over 150 years, it was only in the past 16 years that the presidency seemed within reach for women. Hillary Clinton and Kamala Harris, the two women who came closest to the White House, faced challenges and criticisms during their campaigns.
Despite Harris' loss, supporters believe that her campaign and historic role as the first female vice president have brought women closer to eventually winning the presidency. Harris garnered significant support and shifted perceptions about women in leadership roles.
Although the country may not be ready for a female president, progress has been made in other political arenas. A record number of female governors will be in office in 2025, and several women have made history in the Senate and House of Representatives.
As Harris emphasized in her concession speech at Howard University, the message of perseverance and breaking barriers remains crucial. The question now is whether history will continue to repeat itself or if the momentum of female political engagement will lead to further advancements in the future.
