Vice President Kamala Harris criticized former President Donald Trump’s false claims questioning her race as she urged Black women to organize against him in the upcoming November elections. Speaking at the Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority Inc. event in Houston, Harris emphasized unity and dismissed Trump’s divisive remarks made earlier at the National Association of Black Journalists meeting in Chicago.
Trump had insinuated that Harris identified as Black only recently despite her mixed heritage of being Jamaican and Indian. Harris swiftly responded, calling out Trump’s behavior as a familiar display of divisiveness and disrespect. She stressed the importance of truthfulness and leadership that does not respond with hostility when faced with facts.
Harris, who has a multicultural background and attended Howard University, highlighted the strength found in diversity and urged the sorority members to mobilize for voter registration and turnout. She commended the historical significance and impact of Black Greek organizations in promoting public service and building influential networks in various sectors.
Attendees at the event, like June Penny from Georgia, expressed disappointment in Trump’s attempt to undermine Harris’ racial identity, drawing parallels to his previous attacks on President Barack Obama. Penny, who mentioned having biracial grandchildren, emphasized that the world perceives them as Black despite their mixed heritage.
The Divine Nine organizations, though officially non-political, play a crucial role in public service and have extensive connections in politics, business, and media. Numerous members of Congress and close advisers to President Joe Biden are affiliated with these organizations, highlighting their influential presence in Washington, D.C.
Harris’ engagement with Black Greek life and her efforts to build connections within these organizations underscore her commitment to fostering unity and empowering marginalized communities. The message of unity and resilience echoed in Harris’ speech resonated with the audience, underscoring the importance of coming together to drive positive change and ensure representation in leadership roles.
