Emily Parrott-
Key figures across California are rallying support for Democrat Kamala Harris’ presidential campaign.
During a recent “California All In For Kamala” organizing call, leaders and activists showcased a unified front, emphasizing the critical stakes of the vice president’s race against Republican Donald Trump. Speakers highlighted the importance of active participation in the electoral process, especially in swing states critical for a Democratic victory.
Betty Yee, former California state controller, highlighted the symbolic and practical significance of Harris’s candidacy.
“With 100 days left, we need to empower our community and prepare to protect our democracy,” Yee said.
Yee urged people to fend off the sexism, racism, and transphobic attacks already targeting Harris. She said Harris’ victory would safeguard California’s progressive policies on environmental protection, gun safety, and reproductive rights.
California Attorney General Rob Banta, who holds the job that Harris held from 2011 through 2016, stressed the clear choice in the upcoming election and emphasized the need for action.
“There is so much at stake. Every election seems to be the most important election, but this one is,” Banta said. He contrasted the visions of the candidates, criticizing one side’s agenda of “hate and division” and extolling Harris’ commitment to fighting for “workers, the most vulnerable, our rights, and our freedoms.”
Congresswoman Judy Chu, chair of the Congressional Asian Pacific American Caucus, talked about her direct engagement with Harris since Biden’s endorsement.
“Kamala Harris called me… She wanted to make sure that I told AANHPIs (Asian American, Native Hawaiian and Pacific Islanders) across this nation that she will work hard for our communities,” Chu said.
Reflecting on Harris’ response to the Monterey Park shooting, which killed 11 Asian-American immigrants, Chu praised Harris’ profound empathy for Chu’s hometown.
“Vice President Harris was on the ground within just a few days and personally consoled the victims’ families with her deep compassion,” Chu recalled.
One of the shooting survivors expressed to Chu the numbness and shock he felt after seeing his friends shot and killed.
“He held it all in,” Chu said, “and it wasn’t until he saw Vice President Harris that he was finally able to cry.”
Chu expressed her gratitude for Harris’ empathy and staunch support of gun violence prevention in communities like hers.
Majusha Kulkarni, co-founder of Stop AAPI Hate, raised concerns about the misinformation affecting communities and urged the public to seek out credible news sources. Meanwhile, Sara Aminzadeh, vice president of partnerships at the U.S. Water Alliance, praised Harris for her environmental advocacy, notably her role in passing the Inflation Reduction Act.
Anjali Rimi spoke on the need for continued support for LGBTQ+ rights and civic responsibility.
“I cannot stress enough that transgender people are being made the target in this country right now,” Rimi said. She called on all members and allies to help protect the rights of LGBTQ+ individuals.
Participants said the call was a testament to the broad support for Harris but also a reminder of the significant work ahead.
