By Samuel Timothy
Vice President Kamala Harris delivered a groundbreaking acceptance speech at the Democratic National Convention on Thursday night, pledging a “new way forward” for America and urging voters to reject former President Donald Trump in the upcoming election. Harris’s address, which marked a significant moment in her political career, concluded the four-day convention in Chicago with a call for unity and an end to past divisions.
In her nearly 45-minute speech, Harris, the first Black and Asian-American woman to lead a major party’s presidential ticket, reintroduced herself to the nation by sharing personal stories about her upbringing in a “beautiful working-class neighborhood” and her immigrant roots. She highlighted her background as a prosecutor and her record as vice president under President Joe Biden as qualifications that make her well-suited to lead.
Harris also paid tribute to her late mother, Shyamala Gopalan Harris, emphasizing the lessons of resilience and action she learned from her. Her sister, Maya Harris, also spoke during the event, reflecting on their mother’s influence and setting high expectations for them.
The Vice President’s speech aimed to appeal to American families by promising an “opportunity economy” and addressing issues such as the housing shortage and support for entrepreneurs, although specific policy changes were not detailed.
Trump swiftly responded to Harris’s speech on his social media platform and during a Fox News interview, questioning her record and achievements during her vice-presidency.
The DNC, which initially focused on President Joe Biden’s re-election campaign, shifted its spotlight to Harris after Biden stepped aside, endorsing her candidacy. The convention’s energy was boosted by appearances from high-profile figures such as Barack and Michelle Obama, Bill and Hillary Clinton, Oprah Winfrey, and former Republican Congressman Adam Kinzinger.
The event also featured emotional speeches from gun safety advocates like Gabby Giffords and Lucy McBath, and a show of support from Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer. However, the convention faced criticism for not addressing the protests calling for a Palestinian representative to speak, with Harris only briefly touching on the Gaza conflict.
The evening concluded with a celebratory atmosphere, including a performance by Pink and The Chicks, but a highly anticipated surprise appearance by Beyoncé did not materialize, leaving some attendees disappointed. As 100,000 red, white, and blue balloons descended from the ceiling, the festive mood encapsulated the convention’s conclusion.
