Harris vows resilience in powerful post-election address

US Vice President Kamala Harris, in a concession speech on Wednesday, pledged to continue advocating for the principles that had driven her presidential campaign, while acknowledging President-elect Donald Trump’s victory and warning of potential difficult times ahead.

“While I concede this election, I do not concede the fight that fuelled this campaign,” she told an emotional crowd of supporters at her alma mater, Howard University, a historically Black university in Washington. Harris, at times appearing moved, committed to ongoing efforts for women’s rights, an end to gun violence, and respect for human dignity.

Harris shared that she had congratulated Trump on his win in a call and assured him of a peaceful transfer of power. “The outcome of this election is not what we wanted, not what we fought for, not what we voted for, but hear me when I say – the light of America’s promise will always burn bright,” she declared.

The solemn atmosphere sharply contrasted with the celebratory scene at Howard weeks earlier, where students and alumni gathered in anticipation of her potential election as the first HBCU graduate to become president.

Harris addressed an audience that included former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi, White House aides, and thousands of supporters, with her campaign anthem, Beyoncé’s “Freedom,” playing as she took the stage. Her running mate, Minnesota Governor Tim Walz, was also present.

Reflecting on the principles of American democracy, Harris remarked, “A fundamental principle of American democracy is that when we lose an election, we accept the results. That principle, as much as any other, distinguishes democracy from monarchy or tyranny, and anyone who seeks the public trust must honour it,” a clear reference to Trump’s pre-election doubts over its legitimacy. Trump had continued to claim, falsely, that he had won the 2020 election, which he lost to Biden.

Harris encouraged her followers, especially younger supporters, to remain resilient: “Sometimes the fight takes a while. That doesn’t mean we won’t win.”

Harris had risen to the top of the Democratic ticket in July after Biden stepped aside, bringing renewed energy and financial support, yet struggled to overcome public concerns over the economy and immigration.

“I know many people feel like we are entering a dark time, but for the benefit of us all, I hope that is not the case. But if it is, America, let us light up the sky with optimism, faith, truth, and service, shining like a billion brilliant stars,” she said.

Thousands had gathered at Howard on Tuesday night hoping for a historic win, returning the following day to support Harris and lament her loss.

Jamela Joseph, 31, a doctoral student, remarked, “America had an opportunity to progress intentionally, but the nation has shown a legacy of upholding systemic inequalities.”

Donna Bruce, 72, was there to honour Harris’s efforts, noting the resolve embodied in a young girl’s T-shirt that read, “A Black girl will save the world.” Bruce added, “I still believe that. It may not be this Black girl, but I believe a Black girl will.”