In an open letter that resonates with both her personal journey and her dedication to public service, Vice President Kamala Harris is calling on young voters to step up this November. Drawing on the profound influence her upbringing and time at Howard University had on her life, Harris emphasizes the power that young people hold in shaping the future of America.
Kamala Harris begins by paying tribute to two pivotal forces in her life: her mother and the extended family that helped raise her, as well as the transformative experience of attending an HBCU. Reflecting on her time at Howard University, Harris speaks to the empowerment she felt, a sentiment that’s familiar to many who attend historically Black colleges and universities. “At an HBCU, you’re empowered to be anything and do everything without excuse,” she writes. It’s a place where students are constantly reminded that they are “young, gifted, and Black,” leaving as the people they aspire to be, with lifelong friends by their side.
Harris notes that it was during her college years that she first became politically engaged, learning the importance of fighting for progress alongside her peers. She credits the record voter turnout among college students in 2020 as a key factor in her historic election as Vice President, underscoring how significant young voices are in the democratic process.
As the Vice President continues to travel the country, she’s inspired by the passion, intellect, and perseverance of young leaders. “It is because of the record turnout among college students in 2020 that I am Vice President today,” Harris says, making it clear that the role young people play in elections is vital.
Harris’ letter is more than just a call to action.
She concludes with a powerful message: “Your vote has never mattered more. I know that when young people fight for progress, it changes the course of our nation. I believe in you. I am inspired by you. And I am rooting for your success.”
Kamala Harris is making it clear: the future of the nation is in the hands of its young voters. And she’s counting on them to make their voices heard this November.
