KAMALA INSPIRES: ‘KICK THAT DOOR DOWN’ AT LEADERSHIP SUMMIT.
Harris’ impactful remark sparked cheers from the audience.
Vice President Kamala Harris delivered a passionate speech on Monday at the Asian-Pacific American Institute for Congressional Studies Legislative Leadership Summit. She urged the audience to break barriers and fight for political representation.
As the first Black and Asian American female vice president, Harris reflected on her Indian heritage. According to Fox News, Harris told attendees, “Excuse my language. We have to know that sometimes people will open the door for you and leave it open. Sometimes they won’t, and then you need to kick that f‑‑‑ing door down.”
Her powerful statement elicited cheers from the crowd. Actor and comedian Jimmy O. Yang, who was moderating, joked, “We gotta make T-shirts with that saying, ‘Kick that f—ing door down!”
Harris emphasized that “breaking barriers” inherently involves a moment of “breaking.” She acknowledged that you might get hurt in the process but assured that it’s worthwhile in the end. She encouraged younger attendees to walk into rooms with their chin up and make their voices heard, especially when they are the only ones who look like them or share their background.
CNN reported that Harris also discussed the administration’s efforts to protect abortion rights, in light of the Supreme Court’s decision to overturn Roe v. Wade.
“A decision has been made that strips the American people of a fundamental freedom to make choices about their own bodies,” Harris told Yang. “Consider the implications of this, that individuals no longer have the right to exercise authority over what I call ‘heart and home’ issues—fundamental rights to decide whether to start a family or not.”
Additionally, the Vice President discussed efforts to curb gun violence and praised the influence of young voters, particularly those who have experienced school shootings, in driving change.
“When our young leaders vote in large numbers on these issues, I believe we will see a significant shift in how we address them. Our young leaders, in particular, are very practical and want to see real action taken.”
