Last night, the “Win With Black Men” organization, a collective inspired by the “Win With Black Women” group, hosted a virtual conference that significantly bolstered support for Vice President Kamala Harris‘ presidential campaign.
This event, which drew over 53,000 participants and raised $1.3 million, served as a powerful counter-narrative to the skepticism around Black men’s support for a woman candidate, particularly a Black woman candidate.
The conference was spearheaded by notable figures such as journalist Roland Martin, activists Michael Blake, Khalil Thompson, Quentin James, and political commentator Bakari Sellers, who shared a deeply personal endorsement of Harris. Sellers recounted a touching personal story about Harris’s support during his daughter’s severe illness, illustrating her compassion and dedication to personal relationships.
“I will never forget, the first person to call me… was Kamala Harris,” Sellers shared on the call. “I am not sure people understand the pain and suffering that goes along with being a Black man in this country. I am not sure people understand what it means to stand strong in this country. To have your back against the wall. But I am going to stand with her because she stood with me, during my darkest moment when I almost lost my daughter. When I had to protect my wife.”
Critics and skeptics have often speculated about the reluctance of Black men to support female candidates. However, the overwhelming turnout and financial contributions at this event have clearly showcased Harris’ strong support within this demographic.
The evening was not just about fundraising but also about energizing a significant portion of the electorate. Prominent attendees included actors Don Cheadle and Bill Bellamy, Senators Raphael Warnock and Maxwell Frost, and a host of other influential community leaders and politicians. Each speaker emphasized Harris’ qualifications, leadership qualities, and the importance of rejecting the racist and sexist attacks that have marred her campaign.
The event also made a strong case for the necessity of Black male involvement in the upcoming election, with Senator Warnock urging attendees to actively participate in the electoral process.
“Don’t let anybody slow us down asking the question ‘Can a Black woman be elected president of the United States,'” Warnock stated. “Kamala Harris can win. We just have to show up. History is watching us, and the future is waiting on us.”
Check out the full video below.
Photo Credit: DepositPhotos.com
