Kamala Harris Shows Her Presidency Will Be Historic Without Saying It

This week, the Democratic National Convention showcased a remarkable display of unity and diversity, spearheaded by Vice President Kamala Harris and other prominent figures like vice presidential nominee Tim Walz. The event served as a compelling reminder of the essence of showing rather than telling, a concept embraced by journalists, politicians, and educators alike.

In her speech accepting the nomination, Harris abstained from highlighting the groundbreaking elements of her potential presidency, which would make her the first woman, the first Black woman, as well as the first person of Indian and Jamaican descent in the role. Instead of focusing on her unique demographics, she emphasized collective representation through the voices of many.

Throughout the four days of the convention, a diverse array of speakers, both familiar and new, underscored that Harris’s uniqueness as a candidate resonates within a larger context. Together, they represented a tapestry of extraordinary individuals, including women, people of color, and children of immigrants, showcasing that diversity is an essential part of the American identity, rather than something to be feared.

The Democrats actively countered the Republican narrative that claims the party embodies family values and patriotism. Instead of preaching, Harris and her colleagues illustrated these concepts in their messages. The convention was filled with heartfelt tributes to families, with speakers like Harris, Michelle, and Barack Obama sharing personal stories about how their family dynamics shaped their lives and ambitions.

Emhoff, Harris’s husband, affectionately spoke about her role as “Momala” in their blended family, while their shared experiences were interwoven with the convention’s fabric. Parents of gun violence victims and advocates for reproductive rights passionately addressed their struggles, further highlighting the impact of these issues on families. Oprah Winfrey also notably defended parenting choices, responding directly to derogatory remarks made by a Republican counterpart.

Children had a significant presence throughout the event, not merely as props but as active participants. Harris’s nieces joined her to teach the audience how to pronounce her name, and Walz’s son Gus emotionally shouted support for his father during the proceedings, illustrating a genuine representation of family values.

Patriotism was another theme underscored without the need for loud proclamations. The United Center was adorned with an abundance of flags, transforming it into a vivid symbol of celebration on par with a Fourth of July event. Veterans, including Walz, spoke poignantly about honoring those who serve the nation, reminding attendees that love of country transcends nationalism and divisive rhetoric.

There was an undeniable visual narrative of what it means to be American, showcased through countless faces on stage and in the audience. Harris repeatedly shared her mantra of being “for the people,” linking it to fundamental democratic principles like those found in the Declaration of Independence.

The convention also challenged the notion of Democrats being “godless,” with many references to faith from various traditions. Emhoff highlighted the couple’s celebration of both Christian and Jewish customs. Senator Raphael Warnock referred to voting as a “kind of prayer,” and Representative James Clyburn cited Biblical verses, reinforcing the idea that spirituality intersects with civic responsibility.

At the same time, the event reaffirmed the importance of the separation of church and state, a critical aspect of democratic values. While Harris vowed to work across the aisle, her actions demonstrated this commitment. It was notable how many registered Republicans took the stage, echoing a sentiment of unity that was rare in a Democratic gathering.

Some Democrats raised eyebrows at the inclusion of Republican figures such as former Representative Adam Kinzinger and ex-press secretary Stephanie Grisham, viewing their high-profile support as a testament to the impact of former President Trump’s actions.

Ultimately, Kamala Harris did not just speak about unity; she actively demonstrated that it is achievable. “You have to walk the walk,” she emphasized, and throughout the congress, she exemplified that ethos in every moment.

Source: Los Angeles Times