Harris' Silence on Gender

At the recent Democratic National Convention in Chicago, Vice President Kamala Harris took a markedly different approach to her historic candidacy compared to Hillary Clinton's eight years ago. While Clinton prominently highlighted the significance of electing the first female president, Harris opted for a more understated strategy, allowing her identity as a Black woman to resonate without overt emphasis. Dressed in black, Harris's presence was a stark contrast to the delegates in Suffragette white, reflecting a shift in narrative focus. Political analysts suggest that Harris's decision to refrain from explicitly discussing her groundbreaking candidacy stems from a belief that her identity is self-evident. Former Democratic National Committee Chairman Tom Perez noted that Harris does not need to remind voters of her background, especially in a political climate where her opponents have labeled her as a “DEI hire.” Instead, Harris has chosen to highlight her experiences and the challenges faced by women and people of color, emphasizing her determination to break barriers. The convention saw limited direct references to Harris's historic potential, with the most notable acknowledgment coming from Clinton herself. This approach mirrors Clinton's initial campaign in 2008, where she also downplayed her gender until her campaign faced difficulties. Harris's campaign has instead focused on her toughness and experience as a former prosecutor, positioning her as a formidable candidate. Clinton's 2016 loss had a profound impact on women's political engagement, fueling movements like #MeToo and inspiring more women to run for office. Today, women hold significant representation in Congress and state offices, reflecting a growing acceptance of female leadership in American politics.