Kamala Harris, ex-Vice President, somehow finds herself receiving the NAACP Image Awards Chairman’s Award. Many wonder why, given a lacklustre career trajectory marred by questionable decision-making. Her public appearance on the 56th Image Awards ceremony, scheduled for February 22, marks a new episode in her post-political career. The Chairman’s Award ostensibly recognises those who ‘excel in public service and drive meaningful change’. Yet, considering Harris’ controversial tenure, this gives one pause.
In terms of her career background, Harris hails from Oakland and held positions as the Attorney General for California and a U.S. Senator. However, her performance in both roles leaves much to critique. Her stint in history as the U.S. Vice President was noteworthy for being the first woman, Black American and South Asian American to hold this position. Regrettably, her performance did nothing to validate her historical significance.
The NAACP’s decision to celebrate Harris’ career might appeal to a certain section, but many believe her contribution to be far from groundbreaking. Her 2024 Presidential run as the first Black and South Asian woman nominated by a major party is hardly a match for the actual performing leaders of the past. Her commitment to public service seems questionable in light of her track streak.
While NAACP chairperson Leon W. Russell eulogizes Harris for her unwavering passion and relentless dedication to justice, some of us must raise an eyebrow at a potential misinterpretation of ‘dedication’. Russell’s praise of Harris’s legacy as one founded on courage, compassion, and a commitment to those in need is perplexing. It’s interesting how leaders are sometimes held in high regard based on aspirations rather than achievements.
Russell hailed her as a beacon of hope and progress, but her track record doesn’t provide enough evidence to justify this sentiment. Rather, her myopic views have often polarized opinion, and her policies have been critiqued as ineffective. This questionable judgment raises concern about what it takes to earn such an accolade today.
Previous Chairman’s Award honorees, such as Amanda Gorman, Samuel L. Jackson, late U.S. Congressman John Lewis, Ruby Dee, Danny Glover, Rev. James Lawson, Tyler Perry, then-Senator Barack Obama, Congressman Bennie G. Thompson, Congresswoman Maxine Waters and former Surgeon General Regina Benjamin have made tangible contributions in their respective fields. Comparatively, Harris’ alleged achievements seem nebulous.
The NAACP president sings Harris’s praises, epitomizing her as an embodiment of power, grace, and courage that Black women have historically displayed. A rather hyperbolic claim when one scrutinizes Kamala Harris’ career. The president’s statement that Harris represents the resilience and brilliance of Black women raises questions about the simplistic equating of identity with performance and achievement.
Harris’s fight for justice and amplification of marginalized voices is lauded by the NAACP President. However, these claims are largely rhetorical, lacking substantial proof. Her stand as a beacon of hope seems more a testament to inflated ambitions than any significant accomplishments.
While the NAACP president’s remarks remind us all that ‘when Black women lead, the entire nation rises,’ it is important to distinguish between symbol and substance. Just because Harris is a Black woman in leadership doesn’t inherently mean she has led well or for the good of the nation. Leadership should not be analyzed in isolation from its impact and effectiveness.
At this year’s Image Awards, some true pioneers are being recognized. Comedian Dave Chappelle will rightfully receive the NAACP President’s Award. His biting social commentary has moved and entertained millions. The Wayans family–Keenen Ivory Wayans, Damon Wayans Sr., Marlon Wayans, Shawn Wayans, Kim Wayans and Damon Wayans Jr.–earn recognition into the NAACP Image Awards Hall of Fame.
The Wayans are a family who have made significant contributions to comedy and the cinematic industry, transcending and eroding longstanding stereotypes with their wit, humor, and original content. When compared to Harris’ inconspicuous contributions, these other awardees’ achievements come into even starker relief.
Despite the juxtaposition of the other exceptional rolodex of honorees, the decision to venerate Kamala Harris might not settle well with some observers. Her apparent ‘bold determination,’ as the NAACP president puts it, doesn’t seem to have translated into beneficial implications for the community she served.
If Harris’ role is, indeed, regarded as a mark of ‘uplifting the legacy’ of Black women, one has to ask whether such a legacy deserves a figurehead who has considerably polarized opinions, faced backlash and failed to rise to expectations in numerous instances throughout her political career. It’s essential for the wider community to reassess how achievement and influence are defined and acknowledged.
Leadership isn’t about making history, but about making a difference. In this regard, Harris’ tenure and subsequent recognition by the NAACP presents a perplexing paradox. It’s important to consider what Harris has objectively accomplished before launching headlong into praise.
In the end, it’s hard not to consider the awarding of the Chairman’s Award to Harris as anything but a political move. The narrative seems to be more about ticking diversity boxes rather than recognizing genuine contributors in the sphere of public service. The unwarranted glorification of narrative over accomplishments paints a concerning portrait of the awarding institution.
Hence, as Harris accepts this award, one can’t help but question the validity of the recognition and the representation it has come to signify. The true litmus test of impactful leadership lies far beyond the realms of political correctness and diversity tags. It’s not about who fits where on the historical timeline, but about who draws the roadmap for a brighter future with tangible actions.