Obama makes personal appeal to black men in US: Support Kamala Harris in 2024
During a pre-campaign rally in Pittsburgh on October 10, former President Barack Obama called on Black Americans to unite behind Kamala Harris’ presidential campaign, noting a noticeable lack of enthusiasm compared to his own campaigns in 2008 and 2012.
Before joining Senator Robert P. Casey Jr. at another event later that day, Obama made a visit to a local campaign office, where he delivered a heartfelt message aimed particularly at Black men. According to The Washington Post, Obama voiced his concern over the hesitation of some in the Black community, particularly Black men, to fully support Vice President Harris.
“My understanding, based on reports I’m getting from campaigns and communities, is that we have not yet seen the same kinds of energy and turnout in all corners of our neighborhoods and communities as we saw when I was running,” Obama said. He added that this lack of enthusiasm appeared to be “more pronounced with the brothers,” directly addressing Black men.
In his passionate appeal, Obama underscored the significance of supporting Harris in the 2024 election. “On the one hand, you have somebody who grew up like you, knows you, went to college with you, understands the struggles and pain and joy that comes from those experiences,” he said, referring to Harris. Contrasting her with Donald Trump, Obama stated, “you have someone who has consistently shown disregard, not just for the communities, but for you as a person … And you are thinking about sitting out?”
Obama’s call to action comes at a crucial time as the Harris campaign seeks to galvanize voters, particularly in key battleground states.
Oprah Winfrey has also lent her support to Kamala Harris, hosting a rally in Michigan last month to boost enthusiasm for Harris’ presidential run. The event, a town hall that was live-streamed to reach undecided voters, drew about 400 in-person attendees and thousands more via YouTube, Facebook, and other platforms.
The rally, dubbed “Unite for America,” featured appearances from celebrities such as Tracee Ellis Ross, Chris Rock, Jennifer Lopez, Julia Roberts, Meryl Streep, and Ben Stiller, who joined remotely via Zoom, adding their voices to the growing chorus of support for Harris as the election nears.
