US Vice President Kamala Harris vowed to continue fighting for the values that powered her presidential campaign in a concession speech that acknowledged President-elect Donald Trump’s victory.
“While I concede this election, I will not concede the fight that fueled this campaign,” she told an emotional crowd at her alma mater, Howard University, a historically Black college in Washington, D.C.
While warning of potential dark times, Harris vowed to continue her fight for women’s rights and against gun violence as well as ensure dignity for all. She said she had called Donald Trump to congratulate him on winning Tuesday’s presidential election.
Reassuring her supporters, Harris declared, “The result of this election is not what we wanted, not what we fought for and not what we voted for. But listen to me when I say — the light of America’s promise will always burn bright.” Meanwhile, she pledged her engagement in a peaceful transfer of power.
Her somber address on Wednesday afternoon was in striking contrast with the earlier homecoming celebrations at Howard campus, where thousands of alumni and students gathered with a hope for Kamala’s win.
This was the first time Harris addressed her supporters since Republican nominee Trump won the presidential race.
The event saw the participation of notable figures, including former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi, members of the White House, and thousands of supporters. Her campaign anthem, Beyoncé’s “Freedom,” reportedly played as she stepped to the stage.
Harris’s social media post just a few hours ago echoed a message of resilience and hope. She wrote, “There is an adage: Only when it is dark enough can you see the stars. I know many people feel like we are entering a dark time. For the benefit of us all, I hope that is not the case. But, America, if it is: Let us fill the sky with the light of a billion brilliant stars.”
In a separate tweet, Harris said that her heart is full of gratitude, resolve and love today for the trust people placed in her.