In what many would describe as a historic gathering of African diaspora leaders and advocates, the African diaspora united in a show of support for Vice President Kamala Harris’ 2024 presidential campaign, marking a pivotal moment in the intersection of African voices and U.S. politics. Organized by African Diaspora for Harris (ADH) and hosted by woman organizers Semhar Araia, Nneka Achapu, and Adjoa Kyerematen
The event, spanning several hours, featured a lineup of over 30 influential speakers, including community organizers, state representatives, and activists, all echoing a unified message of mobilization for VP Kamala Harris and Tim Walz. It was a showcase of the growing political clout and influence of African immigrants and their descendants in shaping America’s future.
Bozoma Saint John, a marketing executive known for her work with Netflix and Apple, set the tone for the evening with her powerful message: “We are the American dream,” she declared, underscoring the importance of the diaspora’s role in this election. Saint John’s words encapsulated the collective sentiment that the African diaspora’s journey is intertwined with America’s democratic values. “This is about more than just casting a vote; it’s about representing our communities, our stories, and our legacy in American democracy.”
Recognizing the challenges ahead, Achapu emphasized the African diaspora’s critical role in ensuring Kamala Harris’ victory as she urged attended to prioritize voter registration, fight against voter suppression, and mobilize communities using every platform available, from social media to community partnerships.
This is about more than just the election. This is about our voices with Harris, and making sure we are heard beyond just Election Day, Araia said.
Television host Segun Odulowu of Boston Globe Today reminded attendees of their generational duty to protect the rights fought for by their ancestors. “If your parents could cross the ocean, you can go vote,” he asserted, driving home the importance of staying engaged to honor past struggles. Echoing the same sentiment was Montgomery County Councilman Will Jawando, who highlighted Harris’ deep connection to the diaspora’s aspirations. “Kamala Harris understands us in a deeply personal way. She has the freedom, thanks to what’s been done before, to push a bold, progressive agenda that will benefit us,” he noted.
Equality advocate and Black Lives Matter co-founder Ayo Tometi highlighted the urgency of the situation in a rallying call: “Forward ever, backward never.” She drew parallels between Harris’ political aspirations and the ongoing movement for social and racial equality, emphasizing the election’s significance in shaping a more just and inclusive society.
Dr. Nil Quartelai Quartey, who penned “Kamala the Motherland and Me,” expanded the discourse to international implications, stressing the potential impact of a Harris presidency on U.S.-African relations. “The future of the world will largely be determined by what happens on the continent of Africa,” he said, linking the diaspora’s efforts to the broader global influence of African communities.
Concluding the event, Nigerian singer and politician Banky W delivered a powerful call to action. Urging participants to contribute in any way possible, he emphasized, “No one can do everything, but everyone can do something.” Whether it was through donations, volunteering, or simply spreading the word, Banky W encouraged the audience to play a role in the African diaspora’s impact on the election. His message served as a rallying cry, linking personal responsibility to the collective power of their efforts.
The African diaspora is poised to play a decisive role in shaping America’s future. This gathering demonstrates not only support for Kamala Harris but also a moment of unity and collective resolve, reaffirming the diaspora’s place in the narrative of the nation’s democracy. As Adjoa rightly puts it, “We’re building a movement here, to ensure our voices are heard loud and clear at the polls.”
