By Cristina Damato
WASHINGTON — Vice President Kamala Harris delivered her concession speech at Howard University on Nov. 6, following a call to former President Donald Trump to concede the presidential election. Her speech upheld a tradition dating back to 1896, when William Jennings Bryan congratulated William McKinley on his victory. Since then, 32 concession speeches have marked the peaceful transfer of power, though they are not legally required.
Notably, Trump did not concede the 2020 election to Joe Biden until January 2021, claiming the results were falsified. However, public concessions remain a custom among candidates, symbolizing the democratic values of unity and civility.
Harris opened her remarks by thanking her supporters and expressing her enduring love for the nation. She reassured her audience that her commitment to the ideals of freedom, opportunity, and dignity remains unwavering. “The fight is not over,” she said, vowing to continue advocating for causes such as women’s reproductive rights, ending gun violence, and upholding fundamental human rights.
Addressing younger generations, Harris acknowledged their frustration and high emotions but urged resilience. “This is not a time to throw up our hands. This is a time to roll up our sleeves,” she said.
Harris emphasized the importance of a peaceful transfer of power, calling it a cornerstone of democracy. She noted that concession speeches themselves symbolize this process, distinguishing democracy from autocracy. She confirmed speaking with President-elect Trump to congratulate him on his victory and assured the public that she and President Joe Biden would assist in ensuring a smooth transition of power.
In the closing segment of her speech, Harris acknowledged the apprehension many feel about the country’s future, quoting, “Only when it is dark enough can you see the stars.” She encouraged hope and optimism, concluding with a call to action:
“Let us fill the sky with the light of a brilliant, brilliant billion stars—the light of optimism, of faith, of truth, and service. May that work guide us, even in the face of setbacks, toward the extraordinary promise of the United States of America.”
Harris’s concession was met with applause and emotion, underscoring the enduring power of democracy and hope in challenging times.
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