Vice President Kamala Harris has recorded a congratulatory video message for graduating students at historically Black colleges and universities (HBCUs) across the country. In the video, Harris, who is the first HBCU graduate to be elected to the vice presidency, praises the value of attending an institution like an HBCU and encourages students to strive for excellence, uplift all people, and fight to protect fundamental rights and freedoms. The surprise video has been met with shock and applause during commencement ceremonies and will be shown at around half of all HBCUs in the country, according to the White House.
Harris’ message to HBCU graduates comes at a time when the Biden administration has allocated a record $7 billion in funding for HBCUs, highlighting its commitment to supporting these historically important institutions. The Biden campaign has also emphasized this investment in its outreach to Black voters. Despite facing criticism and protests on college campuses regarding various issues, including the Israel-Hamas conflict, students are being encouraged by Harris to use their voices and leadership skills to build a brighter future for the nation and the world.
Dietra Trent, executive director for the White House Initiatives on HBCUs, commended Harris for sending the right message to students, especially in an environment where policies and actions are adversely affecting Black Americans. While there have been requests for Harris to speak in person at HBCU commencements, the vice president’s pre-recorded video message celebrates students’ academic achievements and highlights the importance of their future roles in various sectors including education, healthcare, technology, and government.
The 2021 graduating class, dubbed the “COVID class,” faced unprecedented challenges due to the pandemic, disrupting their college experience and education. Representative Jasmine Crockett, a Democrat who has been involved in outreach to HBCUs and young voters of color, emphasized the significance of this class and the obstacles they have overcome. Harris’ message serves as a source of inspiration and motivation for these students as they move forward in their careers and work towards building a brighter future despite the challenges they may have faced.
Despite the current political and social climate, Harris’ commencement message focuses on celebrating the achievements of HBCU graduates and encouraging them to continue their efforts in various fields to make a positive impact on society. As students navigate through a changing landscape of education, activism, and political discourse, Harris’ words resonate as a call to action for the next generation of leaders and changemakers. By recognizing the value of attending an HBCU and the importance of upholding fundamental rights and freedoms, Harris reminds graduates of their duty to uplift all people and work towards a better future for the nation and the world.
