Madame Vice President
48 vice presidents later, Kamala Harris was elected as the first-ever woman of color to hold the position.
Americans watched from home as president-elect Joe Biden and vice president-elect gave their acceptance speeches from Wilmington, Del. Saturday, Nov. 7.
December 2, 2020
Saturday, Nov. 7, at 11:24 a.m. senator Kamala Harris made history as not only the first woman but also the first African and Asian American, to be elected vice president of the United States of America. This newfound representation in a position of power can be seen as a win for women and people of color across the United States.
That night, the vice president-elect took to the stage in Wilmington, Del. for a speech before introducing President-Elect Joe Biden. In her speech, Harris recognized the century-long battle women faced that made it possible to achieve such a feat. “Tonight, I reflect on their struggle, their determination, and the strength of their vision — to see what can be unburdened by what has been.” She also recognized what it meant to women of color around the world, old and young. “But while I may be the first woman in this office, I won’t be the last. Because every little girl watching tonight sees that this is a country of possibilities.”
Senior Alicia Pastrana said, “ I think it’s a good thing that we have our first female vice president that is also a woman of color.” As a woman of color, Pastrana explained that she hasn’t seen as many people of color, minorities, or women in politics growing up. “We don’t see a lot of representation,” Pastrana said. She explained, “considering the fact that this is a position mostly taken by older, white men” the election of Harris as vice president is a positive change for the future of young women. “Now a lot of little girls can look up to Kamala Harris.”
Senior Genevieve Martinez and her family have been supporting Harris since the beginning of the race. “We really enjoyed hearing from her,” said Martinez. She was excited to hear that Biden chose Harris as his running mate, and “relieved” for the Biden-Harris win.
Martinez is also considering this a win for minorities and people of color. “Now that we have a good basis for minority groups, I’m really excited for our future,” she said. She views Harris’ election as a “great asset” to the rights of the minority populations. Martinez also believes that Harris’ election as Vice President is helping to break a barrier of stereotypes tied to minorities. “Now she can be a great role model and leader for us,” said Martinez.
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