RACE + GENDER
How Kamala Harris Inspired Layered Debate on Race and Gender
Her candidacy has fostered more nuanced discussions
Kamala Harris, a Black and South Asian American woman, shattered several glass ceilings before reaching this point in her career. She became the first woman of color elected as District Attorney of San Francisco, Attorney General of California, and Vice President. Depending on the election outcome, she may also become the first woman to become president. Yet, Harris’ ascension to the top of the Democratic ticket has inspired a layered debate on race and gender. Her multifaceted identity challenges the white-black narratives that often dominate political discourse.
America’s legacy of racism continues to impact political attitudes, diminishing support for Black candidates, as well as racial minorities. For instance, when Ann Coulter, a conservative political commentator, interviewed Vivek Ramaswamy, she shared that she would never support his campaign for the presidency, telling him face-to-face — it’s “because you’re Indian.” Despite the pair agreeing on policy, his identity became a deal breaker. On top of the straightforward rejection of minority candidates, stereotype endorsement can also dampen support.
