Higher Heights Thanks VP Kamala Harris and Reflects on the Historic Wins in the 2024 Election

WASHINGTON (Nov. 7, 2024) — Higher Heights, the political home for Black women, President & CEO Glynda C. Carr issued the following statement on the 2024 Election.

“This election cycle was a testament to the power, resilience, and organizing strength of Black women voters, who mobilized, engaged, and turned out across the country, even amid challenging times. Together, Black women strengthened our role in advancing incremental change at every level of government.

We extend our deepest gratitude to Vice President Kamala Harris, whose groundbreaking candidacy and unwavering dedication to this race have left an indelible mark on American politics. Harris’s commitment to elevating the voices of women, communities of color, and everyday Americans brought critical issues to the forefront and set a new standard for leadership. Through her hard-fought campaign, she demonstrated resilience, grace, and the courage to break barriers, inspiring Black women and young girls everywhere with what is possible.

This year’s Election Day coincided with the anniversary of Shirley Chisholm’s historic 1968 victory as the first Black woman elected to Congress. Chisholm’s “unbought and unbossed” leadership sparked the “Chisholm Effect,” paving the way for generations of Black women to step into political leadership. Vice President Harris’s groundbreaking journey builds on this legacy, marking the beginning of the “Kamala Effect”—a powerful reminder of the progress we have made and the resilience shaping our future.

Despite Vice President Kamala Harris’s loss, there were significant wins and bright spots for Black women in this election cycle, and our movement remains critical in growing Black women’s representation at every level of the political system.

Tuesday night marked a historic milestone for Black women in the U.S. Senate, as Angela Alsobrooks of Maryland and Lisa Blunt Rochester of Delaware became the first Black women to win Senate seats in their respective states. This marks the first time in history that two Black women will serve in the Senate simultaneously. Higher Heights also celebrates the reelection of every Black woman incumbent in Congress, a tremendous victory affirming the trust placed in Black women leaders and their championing the issues that matter most. From frontline incumbents like Emilia Sykes (OH-13) and Jahana Hayes (CT-05) to long-standing leaders, these collective victories reflect the growing impact of Black women in shaping our democracy. They are now part of a legacy of Black women who break barriers and advance progress for communities nationwide.

Vice President Harris’s accomplishment as the first Black woman to become the presidential candidate has forever shifted the political landscape, paving the way for others to follow. Her presence on the national stage has inspired countless Black women to engage, vote, and run for office. Her legacy will continue to galvanize our communities, fuel the fight for justice, and bring us closer to a nation that truly reflects the diversity of its people. We thank Kamala Harris for her bold leadership and celebrate all she has achieved and will continue to achieve.”

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Higher Heights for America, a 501(c)(4) organization, and its connected federal political action committee, Higher Heights for America PAC, which works to expand Black women’s elected representation and voting participation. For additional information, visit: https://www.higherheightsforamerica.org,