Statement Congratulating Kamala Harris,the First Woman of Color Elected to be Vice President of the United States

November 7, 2020

Women of Color Advancing Peace, Security, and Conflict Transformation (WCAPS) congratulates Kamala Harris, the first woman of color elected to be Vice President of the United States.

Women and girls of color must be able to see themselves in leadership roles and other positions they seek, and must be made aware that these same opportunities also exist for them. The lack of visibility for women of color omits an essential narrative that can negatively alter perceptions of self-worth, confidence, or achievement. This is why it is critical that we see other women of color in the highest levels of government, as well as in local government, media, the nongovernmental sector, the private sector, and in other roles.

There are many issues of concern today that impact the global community. These issues include climate change and its environmental effects including food and water security, infectious disease, cybersecurity, immigration, human trafficking, gender equity, and weapons of mass destruction. The loss of peace and security both domestically and internationally affect women of color most predominantly. It is therefore important that women of color, as affected in these issues, are represented in all aspects of societal efforts to combat these concerns. Unfortunately, women of color are rarely seen in positions of influence over these issues. 

Vice President Kamala Harris has pushed open the door wider for other women of color to enter and have their voices heard and to be part of decision making processes. The road to positive change has just gotten a bit clearer. As the United States moves forward with a new administration, women of color look forward to  continuing breaking barriers, and shaping institutions to be more inclusive of diverse voices that reflect a global perspective that positively impacts us all.

Onwards.