The Tubman Factor

Vice President Kamala Harris’ positive messages this month encouraging the next generation of leaders to “stay in the fight” echoed Kwanzaa founder Maulana Karenga’s end-of-year reflections: “We are, each and all of us, always standing at the crossroads of history with our foremother Nana Harriet Tubman, embodying the struggles, hopes, aspirations, prayers, and promise of our people.

We must realize with her that freedom, dignity, self-determination, and all the great goods of life are shared goods, and we must achieve, secure, and enjoy them together ‘in and through righteous and relentless struggle’.” Harris delivered her first major remarks since conceding the election to Trump, and they were Tubman-fierce.

“In moments like this, the true test of our character is how resilient and persistent we are to pursue the future that we all can see,” Harris said during a speech in Maryland. “Do we throw up our hands, or do we roll up our sleeves?”

During the speech, Harris declined to include details about her next political move, which has been rumored to be either a run for California governor in 2026 or a presidential run in 2028. However, she did confirm that she would remain involved in politics.

“No one can walk away,” the vice president said. “We must stay in the fight because that is the responsibility, in my opinion, that comes with the privilege of being an American.”
Harris on Tuesday directed her message to younger voters, Black Information Network reported.

“This struggle is not new: It goes back nearly 250 years ago to Lexington and Concord, generation after generation,” Harris said. “It has been driven by those who love our country, cherish its ideals, and refuse to sit passive while our ideals are under assault.” -BG