DALLAS (AP) — Vice President Kamala Harris recently embarked on a campaign swing, starting in Nevada to launch the reelection outreach campaign to Asian Americans, Native Hawaiians, and Pacific Islanders. She then traveled to Dallas to address the annual gathering of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, the Black sorority she pledged at Howard University.
Harris, the first female vice president and the first Black woman and person of Asian descent to hold the role, utilized her racial identity and personal background to engage with key elements of the Biden coalition. Her campaign events focused on highlighting her multifaceted identities and life story as a means to champion universal American values such as freedom, justice, and democracy.
During her appearances, Harris emphasized her upbringing in a multicultural household in San Francisco's Bay Area and her education at Howard University. She refrained from promoting herself and instead directed her efforts towards supporting President Joe Biden, emphasizing his resilience and determination in the face of challenges.
Despite facing attacks from former President Donald Trump and Republican allies, Harris remained steadfast in her support for Biden. Attendees at her events expressed admiration for her and pondered the possibility of her assuming a larger role in the event of unforeseen circumstances affecting Biden's candidacy.
At the Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority gathering in Dallas, Harris highlighted the sorority's legacy of advocating for civil rights over the years. The crowd, comprised entirely of Black women, welcomed Harris with traditional greetings and affirmations, considering her a sister and a symbol of empowerment.
In both Nevada and Dallas, Harris connected with diverse audiences, acknowledging the importance of immigrant communities and celebrating the rich cultural tapestry of America. Her message resonated with attendees, who viewed her as a beacon of hope and representation in the political landscape.
