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This article is written by a student writer from the Her Campus at UCSB chapter.

Today, November 7, 2020, I woke up greeted by the news that Joe Biden and Kamala Harris had won the electoral votes of Pennsylvania, pushing them past the 270 vote requirement for a presidential win. Biden and Harris unexpectedly flipped several notoriously red states, including Michigan, Wisconsin, and of course, Pennsylvania. 

 

This day is so much more than just a big sigh of relief and cause to blast FDT by YG (although I did), it is a historical milestone for women and people of color across the country. Kamala Harris will be not only the first female Vice President; but the first Black Vice President and the first Vice President of South Asian descent.

 

It seems well overdue that a woman has risen to this position of power in our country. Just 100 years ago, women gained suffrage in the United States. What a wonderful way to celebrate and commemorate this century of female voices, and strong women. We have been anticipating this moment, watching as Hillary nearly made the presidency four years ago, and as Elizabeth Warren was one of the top Democratic candidates earlier this year. But today, Kamala becomes the FIRST WOMAN on a presidential ticket to have WON! 

 

Kamala Harris has done things in her past that I do not agree with. She has a history of being against the usage of recreational marijuana, of supporting prison labor, and not supporting the investigations and requirement of body cameras on police. However, her views on these issues have progressed and changed overtime. Whether or not you agree with her past, Kamala still provides a much-needed female figure in office that women everywhere can be proud of, and look up to. To have her as the Vice President is empowering and uplifting to all American women. 

 

In a time where our country is so racially divided, and injustice towards people of color and women is so prevalent, Kamala’s victory is very significant. Kamala was the first female and first Black California Attorney General. Following that position, Kamala was the second Black female Senator, and the first South Asian-American Senator. Kamala has a history of firsts. 

 

It brings tears to my eyes to imagine that young girls and children of color who are growing up now, will grow up with a woman of color in such a high position of power. Kamala will give so many young children hope and empowerment. Today, not only do we celebrate the removal of President Trump from office, but we celebrate the rise of Kamala.

Sophia Lovell is a third year Philosophy and English double major at UCSB. She is originally from San Diego, but embraces Isla Vista as her second home. Her passions include trying not to kill her houseplants, cold brew, and dismantling the patriarchy.
 University of California, Santa Barbara chapter of Her Campus