Kamala Harris Guided By Reparations Advocate Amid Presidential Bid
As Vice President Kamala Harris campaigns for the presidency, she finds herself closely aligned with advocates for reparations for Black Americans, an issue central to many of her supporters, including her longtime mentor Rev. Amos Brown.
Although Harris has stopped short of fully endorsing reparations, key allies such as Amos continue pushing for federal measures to address what they say are gross historical injustices against Black Americans, as Fox News reports.
Harris’s Longtime Mentor Pushes Reparations Discussion
Brown, a well-known civil rights leader, and Harris’s spiritual mentor, is expected to play a significant role in the reparations conversation if she becomes president. Brown, who has served as the vice chair of California’s reparations task force since 2021, was appointed by Gov. Gavin Newsom to bring his expertise to the state-level reparations debate.
In 2022, Brown held a high-profile event at his church called “Solidarity for Reparations,” featuring Rev. Frederick Douglass Haynes III, another prominent reparations advocate. Haynes’s speech at the event emphasized the moral duty to address past wrongs, declaring, “America, you owe us…you gotta pay us what you owe us.” Brown praised Haynes’s words, calling them “a wonder,” and acknowledged the significant challenge that comes with advocating for reparations on a national scale.
Brown’s Role in Shaping Harris’s View on Reparations
Brown has guided Harris’s views on social justice issues since she first considered entering public office nearly two decades ago. His influence has shaped her cautious approach to reparations, with Harris stating that while the topic is important, it must be studied before any policy decisions are made.
Harris' advisor has publicly defended the need for reparations, arguing that those who dismiss the cause as unnecessary lack empathy. “If anyone says, ‘Y’all don’t deserve nothing…they are heartless,” he remarked, illustrating his frustration with opponents of the movement. Brown also noted that while reparations cannot be reduced to a dollar figure, addressing the historical injustices faced by Black Americans is essential. He compared the debt to a “sin bill” that has accrued interest due to years of inaction.
Harris Balances Public Endorsements With Her Cautious Approach
Harris’s 2019 campaign marked the beginning of her public acknowledgment of reparations, expressing support for studying the issue while avoiding a direct endorsement. Since then, her stance has remained largely unchanged, balancing calls for action with a measured, analytical approach.
Several influential advocacy groups, such as the U.S. Black Chambers and Black Voters Matter Fund, support Harris and have contributed financially to her campaign. These groups have called for federal reparations, underscoring the need for what they describe as compensation for “blood, sweat, and tears” contributed by Black ancestors to the United States. The Black Church PAC, another significant backer of Harris, includes preachers like Rev. Michael McBride and Pastor Jamal Bryant, both of whom are strong supporters of reparations.
Black Activist Groups Rally Behind Reparations
In July 2024, Harris hosted a reception with the U.S. Black Chambers, where she highlighted advancements made by Black business leaders and the importance of continued economic empowerment. This event marked one of many efforts by Harris to strengthen ties with Black activists and leaders.
Meanwhile, Black Voters Matter Fund received a $150,000 contribution from Harris’s campaign. This organization has continued its efforts to push reparations, arguing that compensating Black Americans is vital for achieving a just society.
The Black Church PAC, which received similar support, has been working to boost voter turnout in swing states. This group also strongly supports reparations, framing it as a necessary remedy for systemic injustices.
Pastor Bryant’s March to White House
Pastor Jamal Bryant, a member of the Black Church PAC, staged a symbolic walk to the White House in support of reparations. His journey represented the unfulfilled promise of “40 acres,” a long-standing symbol of reparations for Black Americans.
In his speech, Bryant declared, “We went 42 miles because we never got 40 acres!” Emphasizing that reparations must be on the national agenda, he argued that Black Americans deserve compensation as the only marginalized group in the U.S. without it.
While Harris continues to express interest in studying reparations, her association with influential figures like Rev. Brown has kept the issue central to her campaign.
A Complex Issue for National Platform
Harris’s statements on reparations reflect a nuanced approach, aiming to bridge diverse perspectives while aligning with core supporters. She has repeatedly clarified that while she supports discussing reparations, she believes the topic warrants thorough examination.
“I am running to be a president for all Americans,” Harris stated, but acknowledged disparities rooted in historical context. This careful language highlights her awareness of the complexities surrounding reparations on a federal level.
Brown, however, remains steadfast in his belief that reparations are not only necessary but morally imperative. His position is echoed by other advocates, including U.S. Black Chambers president Ron Busby, who has argued that if the government can fund pandemic relief for small businesses, it should also consider reparations.
Momentum Builds for Reparations Movement
The involvement of groups like Black Voters Matter Fund and Black Church PAC underscores the broad support Harris has within some Black activist circles, particularly on the topic of reparations.
While Harris has yet to make a definitive policy commitment, the growing influence of advocates like Brown suggests reparations could continue to play a prominent role in her political trajectory.
With the election upon us, Harris’s approach to reparations may be scrutinized further, with supporters and opponents alike watching how she navigates this complex issue. Should she secure the presidency, figures like Brown could help shape national conversations on reparations, pushing the issue to the forefront of American politics.