Fiona Nanna, ForeMedia News
5 minutes read. Updated 5:03PM GMT Fri, 23August, 2024

In a poignant display of community solidarity, over three thousand kilometers from the bustling city of Chicago, supporters of Kamala Harris gathered in her hometown of Oakland to celebrate a significant milestone. The event, held in conjunction with the Democratic National Convention where Harris accepted the party’s nomination for President of the United States, underscored her deep connections to the city where her journey began.
Harris, a trailblazer in American politics, has always held Oakland close to her heart. As the former California Attorney General and U.S. Senator, her roots run deep in the city, marking the beginning of a remarkable career that has now led her to the forefront of national politics. The watch party, a heartfelt tribute to her achievements, was organized by the local chapter of the NAACP, which used the occasion to advocate for increased voter participation, especially in key swing states.
Local officials and community leaders joined the celebration, emphasizing the importance of civic engagement. Among the attendees was Jennifer Stephens Pierre, an Oakland resident who was visibly moved by the event. Reflecting on Harris’s impact, Pierre highlighted the significance of seeing someone from their community rise to such heights. “Being in Oakland and just being able to see where she’s from, I think is not only inspiring to me, and I’m 50 plus, but inspiring to my daughter, who also wants to be an attorney. Inspiring to all the little girls to know that the person that’s sitting next to you in elementary school may just one day become the president of the United States. And you know what? You don’t have to be perfect to do it.”
Despite Harris’s inspiring presence, her tenure as Vice President under President Joe Biden has not been without controversy. The upcoming election will see intensified efforts from both the Republican and Democratic parties as they aim to sway undecided voters before the November 5th election. Harris’s policies and leadership style remain topics of debate, with her performance and stance on various issues under scrutiny.
As the political landscape evolves, Harris’s connection to her hometown serves as a powerful reminder of the potential for local figures to make a significant impact on the national stage. The watch party in Oakland not only celebrated her achievements but also galvanized the community to engage actively in the electoral process.