Howard University Men on Kamala Harris: Student Perspectives on Her Historic Run for President
CAMPUS | SEP. 13, 2024
Image via @kamlaharris on Instagram
When Kamala Harris announced her candidacy for president, excitement spread rapidly, especially among Black women who viewed her as a powerful symbol of breaking barriers. For Howard University women, it felt personal—one of their own was set to make history on the largest political stage. But what do the men of Howard University think about Harris’s presidential bid? Through a series of interviews, several Howard men shared their thoughts on her candidacy, her policies, and the legacy she may leave behind, particularly for Black men.
By RASIAH WORTHY
(Image via Howard Magazine)
Brock Morgan, a graduating senior majoring in broadcast journalism from Kannapolis, North Carolina, captures the significance of Harris’s run, stating:
“It shows you that greatness does live here... seeing somebody who looks like you, who has been at the same place as you have, is really inspiring. It shows that you can do anything, and the sky's the limit.”
This sense of pride runs deep within the Howard community, especially at an HBCU where Harris’s legacy as a graduate holds substantial significance. Robert Hill, a junior honors broadcast journalism major from Kansas City, Missouri, expresses his thoughts:
“She is a Black woman running for president, and to see that in itself is history-making. If you think about it, our ancestors probably never thought we could make it this far. Kamala proves how far we have come as a society.”
Hill also emphasized the importance of Harris being a Howard alumna:
“She paves the way for us, making us believe that we can do anything we put our minds to, no matter what anyone says, even if it is running for president.”
(Image via @kamlaharris on Instagram)
Yet, while Harris’s candidacy represents progress, her time as a prosecutor has sparked controversy, particularly within the Black community. During the 2024 presidential debate, Harris highlighted the Central Park Five case, now known as the Exonerated Five, drawing attention to Donald Trump’s role in calling for their execution. For many, this moment was critical in showing Harris’s willingness to confront the controversial issues of race and injustice.
(Image via The New York Times)
Aaron DuBose, a junior finance major from Detroit, Michigan, praises her strategic mention of the case:
“Her bringing up the Exonerated Five was a great example because Donald Trump single-handedly paid for front-page news supporting their incarceration for a crime they did not commit. A lot of people, especially white voters, didn’t even know about the extreme measures Trump took to put those boys in jail. Harris used this to show Trump’s racism and to remind us that we can’t forget history.”
(Image via IMDb)
For those unfamiliar with the Exonerated Five's case, we recommend watching the Netflix series “When They See Us” to gain deeper insight into their story.
However, not all Howard men agree on the effectiveness of Harris mentioning the case. Robert Hill takes a different view:
“I feel her mention of the Exonerated Five didn’t help because some in the Black community still criticize her for turning her back on them during her time as a prosecutor.”
(Image via Chicago Tribune)
This tension reflects a broader concern among Howard men regarding Harris’s legacy. While her achievements as a prosecutor are acknowledged, some are cautious about how her past may influence her policies moving forward. DuWayne Portis, a sophomore journalism major from Chicago, Illinois, defends Harris’s record:
“Some criticisms about her time as a prosecutor are valid, but people forget that she was doing her job. Social media has skewed the perception of her record, and I think she’s been able to change many of the things she was criticized for. At the end of the day, she’s still the most qualified candidate.”
Beyond the specifics of her policy history, many Howard men view Harris’s candidacy as a moment that could elevate HBCUs and reshape perceptions of Black leadership.
“Kamala Harris being elected would be astronomical, especially for Black women and men attending HBCUs. Her legacy would finally give HBCUs the respect they deserve,” says DuBose. “It would show that we are producing leaders who can run this country, not just PWIs.”
Harris’s campaign also challenges traditional gender dynamics in politics. Marcus Fields, a junior human development major from Detroit, Michigan, observed:
“Some men are afraid of a Black woman becoming president due to traditional gender roles and toxic masculinity. Kamala Harris is a strong leader and proves that gender doesn’t define capability.”
Hill echoed this sentiment, saying:
“For some men, seeing a Black woman running for and potentially winning the presidency is tough to accept, but it’s about time.”
(Image via @kamlaharris on Instagram)
As the 2024 election approaches, the anticipation among Howard men continues to build. For many, Harris’s candidacy represents not just a political race but a historical moment of transformation. Brock Morgan sums it up best:
“Positions of power in America should look like America.”
Harris’s run has reignited important conversations about race, gender, and leadership in American politics. For the men of Howard, her candidacy is about more than policy—it represents the power of representation and the enduring legacy of Black excellence. Marcus Fields, Mister School of Education at Howard University, reflects on this impact:
“I think her historic run will inspire generations to come as they see that the impossible can be done. I, myself, walk around with a different sense of pride, knowing that someone who was in my situation prevailed and defied the odds.”
The Latest
TRENDS WE ARE PREDICTING FROM NYFW
BY ARIANA ADADE
5 SUMMER MOVIES TO WATCH WHEN THERE’S NOTHING TO WATCH
BY CORTNEII SAMUEL
THE SUN TRIED TO COOK HOWARD STUDENTS LAST WEEK
BY ASHLEY JOHNSON