Generation Black TV - Live
--- Main Blog Content Below ---
Kamala Harris is facing a critical challenge in the 2024 election: winning over young Black voters. At North Carolina Central University (NCCU), a prominent historically Black college, many students remain unsure about her campaign, with some torn between supporting her or not voting at all. Despite her deep connection to HBCUs as an alumna of Howard University and a member of Alpha Kappa Alpha sorority, this background hasn’t fully translated into automatic support from the younger demographic.
Key issues like economic mobility, student loans, and reproductive rights are top priorities for these voters, yet some feel Harris’s policies don’t adequately address their concerns. For instance, students like James Christian view her as the better alternative to Donald Trump, appreciating her representation of the Black community. However, others, such as Nya Lumsden, remain undecided, questioning whether Harris is truly the best choice or simply a lesser evil.
The hesitance among young Black voters reflects broader sentiments of disillusionment with the political system. Many students are increasingly skeptical about whether politicians genuinely understand their struggles or if they are merely seeking votes. Aimy Steele, the chief executive at the New North Carolina Project, emphasizes the importance of addressing pressing issues such as student debt and economic opportunities that resonate deeply with young voters.
Harris’s campaign must not only acknowledge these concerns but also actively engage with students to build trust and demonstrate her commitment to their needs. This includes direct outreach on college campuses and open dialogues about how her policies can lead to tangible benefits for the community. If Harris hopes to win North Carolina and secure the support of young Black voters, especially those at HBCUs, her campaign will need to confront their doubts head-on and clearly communicate how her vision aligns with their aspirations.
