Within the confines of national politics and societal expectations, Kamala Harris stands as a woman of remarkable prowess; a woman of color in a high-ranking position in a male dominated world. Her selection as Vice President is a symbol of her breaking through societal barriers. Unlike the norm, however, Harris has not employed the rallying cry common among powerful women seeking to inspire other women. Instead, she has continuously showcased her capability as a political leader without highlighting her gender as a woman.
Drawing from her childhood in the racially dynamic city of Oakland, CA, Harris built her political career from her understanding of the need for equality. Her mother, being a migrant from India and a civil rights activist, moulded Harris’s perspective on life, teaching her about the unique struggles that women, particularly women of color, experience in society. Rather than leveraging her experiences to stoke a rallying cry for women’s empowerment, Harris has taken a more subtle approach.
A part of her discreet approach may also be tied to the fact that Harris was raised during a period where there was a clear surge in racial tensions, gender inequality, and discrimination based on race and gender. Through her actions, Harris is communicating a sense of unity and collaboration. While it may seem unusual for a woman in her high-ranking position to shy away from embracing the ‘first woman’ rallying call, it is essential to remember that Harris comes from a generation where standing out because of identity was more of a handicap than a rallying point.
Another contributing factor to Harris’ unique approach is her extensive career in law enforcement. As the first woman, first Asian-American, and first Black woman to serve as California’s attorney general, Harris had to rely more on her capabilities rather than her identity to make an impact. Throughout her career, Harris has shown time and again that women can excel in leadership just as much, if not more, than their male counterparts. However, she has always done this with an air of quiet resilience, preferring to let her actions speak for themselves rather than employing a rallying cry to promote her accomplishments as a woman.
From a larger perspective, Harris’ decision to steer clear of the ‘first woman’ rallying cry may also be a strategic move to bridge bipartisan gaps in a politically divided nation. Harris’s political agenda has always sought to serve as a unifying factor, promoting policies such as criminal justice reform, tax cuts for the middle class, and affordable healthcare. By not focusing on her womanhood as a defining feature, Harris may be attempting to bridge gaps and promote a more inclusive agenda for all Americans, irrespective of gender.
In summary, Kamala Harris has chosen a quiet show of resilience and reliance on her professional skills over the ‘first woman’ rallying cry. This unique approach sets her apart in the political arena and may be reflective of her strategic intent to unite, rather than divide, Americans across various ideological lines. Regardless, her role as the first woman vice president implicitly offers inspiration for countless women across the globe. The implicit message in Harris’ political approach is indeed powerful – a woman’s capability can speak louder than her identity.