The Vice Presidential candidate, Sen. Kamala Harris, is no stranger to making history or pushing the envelope, and she continues to do so as she releases her most recent campaign effort, an agenda aimed specifically at reassuring and courting Black men.
First and foremost, Harris’ focus on Black men speaks volumes about the importance placed on inclusivity and intersectionality in her campaign. Critics have argued, however, Harris has faced criticism for her prosecutorial record, with some Black men expressing disdain toward her history of implementing strict law enforcement policies. Her new agenda targets these concerns and aims to quell any doubts Blacks may have about her devotion to their causes.
At the core of Harris’ agenda are plans to tackle systemic racism. A significant part of this initiative is her promise to work towards equitable economics, addressing wealth disparities that have long-faced Black men. Harris is proposing major economic initiatives including increasing access to affordable housing, creating more job opportunities and developing wealth with proper investments that would benefit Black Americans.
In addition to economic plans, her agenda also aims to provide comprehensive healthcare to Black men, with a specific focus on treating chronic conditions and reducing the mortality rate. She plans to tackle the grim reality of racial disparities in healthcare, something that has been widely exposed and further exacerbated by the Covid-19 pandemic. Harris aims to improve access to quality healthcare and critical preventative measures for this demographic.
Criminal justice reform also takes center stage in her agenda. Harris argues that the present system disproportionately targets Black men and she commits to focusing on rehabilitation and re-entry programs. She also promises to end cash bail and mandatory minimums, two features of the US criminal justice system which critics argue disproportionately affect Black men.
Harris’s proposal includes investing in education and schools, particularly in communities where Black men and boys reside. The teaching profession will also receive increased support under her plan, including raising teacher pay and investing in teacher recruitment and training, with a focus on diversifying the workforce.
Certainly critical to her motives is the assurance of safeguarding voting rights, a pivotal point in light of the recent issues regarding voter suppression. Harris promises to fight against such activities that disproportionately target Black men and suppress their votes, asserting that every vote does matter and will be counted.
A noteworthy aspect of the agenda is the aim to change the narrative about Black men in media and society. Harris intends to combat negative stereotypes and promote a more positive, empowering image of Black men in the country.
Harris’s ambitious proposal shows that she is not afraid to tackle the issues head-on. The concentrated focus on Black men reflects a recognition that their unique experiences and struggles necessitate specific policy initiatives. The approach also dispels false notions that Black men are monolithic and instead acknowledges their diverse needs and concerns. While the success of this agenda depends heavily on the election’s outcome, it marks a significant landmark in addressing the specific issues facing Black men at an electoral level.
