Vice President Kamala Harris used profanity on Monday while offering advice to young Asian Americans, Native Hawaiians, and Pacific Islanders about breaking through barriers. Harris, who is of Indian and Jamaican descent, emphasized the importance of perseverance and resilience. She encouraged the young people to keep their chins up and kick down doors that may be closed to them. Harris made her comments during a conversation moderated by actor and comedian Jimmy O. Yang at the annual Asian Pacific American Institute for Congressional Studies Legislative Leadership Summit. The conversation was live-streamed on the White House website.
During the conversation, Harris shared her experience as the first woman elected vice president of the United States and how her heritage has influenced her leadership roles. She emphasized the need for representation and empowerment for marginalized communities. Harris’s use of profanity sparked cheers and applause from the audience, with the vice president acknowledging and apologizing for her language. While profanity in politics is not uncommon, Harris generally avoids such language in her public appearances.
The event took place as part of the celebration of May as Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander Heritage Month. Harris and President Joe Biden were scheduled to speak at a White House Rose Garden reception later that evening. The vice president’s remarks were aimed at inspiring and empowering young people of Asian descent to overcome obstacles and embrace their cultural heritage. Harris’s message of resilience and determination resonated with the audience, highlighting the importance of representation and inclusion in leadership positions.
Harris’s advice to young Asian Americans, Native Hawaiians, and Pacific Islanders reflects her commitment to breaking barriers and promoting diversity in leadership. As the first woman and person of color to hold the office of vice president, Harris continues to advocate for marginalized communities and encourage underrepresented groups to pursue their ambitions. The event at the Legislative Leadership Summit provided a platform for Harris to engage with young people and address the challenges they may face in their professional and personal lives.
While Harris’s use of profanity may have been unexpected, it underscored the intensity of her message about perseverance and determination in the face of adversity. By encouraging young people to “kick down doors” and defy expectations, Harris exemplified the resilience and strength required to break through barriers. Her candid and empowering words resonated with the audience, inspiring a sense of possibility and hope for a future where all individuals can thrive and succeed regardless of their background.
In conclusion, Vice President Kamala Harris’s remarks at the Asian Pacific American Institute for Congressional Studies Legislative Leadership Summit highlighted the importance of representation, empowerment, and resilience for young people of Asian descent. Harris’s message of breaking through barriers and embracing cultural heritage resonated with the audience, underscoring the significance of diversity in leadership. As a trailblazer in American politics, Harris continues to advocate for underrepresented communities and inspire the next generation of leaders to pursue their dreams with determination and courage.
