Why Kamala Harris’ Win Is A Win For Women World Over
On November 8th, history was made. And for more than one reason. Not only did Kamala Harris become the first woman Vice President of the…
On November 8th, history was made. And for more than one reason. Not only did Kamala Harris become the first woman Vice President of the United States but she also became the first woman of colour to be holding the second most powerful political title in arguably the strongest democracy of the world.
The memes and tweets exploded. Harris striding, in heels; Harris descending onto the tarmac; Harris as Wonder Woman.
One of our personal favourites? “Make sure to wear shoes, ladies. There’s glass everywhere.”
It’s all the world talked about and celebrated on that day — but why?Why is Kamala Harris’ win a win for women outside of the US? Why are women across the globe feeling a sense of pride they have never felt before?
Because for countless women and girls, Harris’ achievement of reaching the second highest office in the most powerful country in the world represents hope. And validation. And the shattering of a proverbial glass ceiling that has kept women away from the top tiers of American government.
Madam Vice President is truly not a fictional character anymore. Her election erodes the deep-rooted misogyny and xenophobia that exists in powerful offices not just of her country, but world over. It gives a glimmer of hope for envisioning a more gender inclusive and equal world.
And it is only because of this hope that Indian women and others feel Harris’ win in the US is so personal. India, for instance has had a long standing history of powerful women leaders — from a female Prime Minister to a President to numerous Chief Ministers. Most of them have wielded unparalleled power while in office and been instrumental in changing the face of Indian politics. Perhaps that’s why that closer home, Harris’ victory has been celebrated more so.
C’mon, we cannot deny that the prospect of having the first-ever woman as the Vice President is massively uplifting. Especially for those women who dare to dream.
Women, and men from all over the world played her speech on repeat — “And to the children of our country, regardless of your gender, our country has sent you a clear message: Dream with ambition, lead with conviction and see yourself in a way that others might not see you, simply because they’ve never seen it before.”
Her win is a win everywhere. Because an inspiring story of many firsts always is.
Kamala Harris has arrived. She’s going to campaign in Converse, and dance to Cardi B’s tunes and she’s going to be the blueprint for women’s political possibility, everywhere.
Like she said, “While I may be the first woman in this office, I will not be the last.”
Oh you definitely won’t. Not after what you have ignited in all of us.
Sincerely,
Women of the World