Emerge, a prominent program dedicated to recruiting and training Democratic women who aspire to run for office, announced that Harris would be the keynote speaker for its anniversary gala. The organization was founded after Harris’ run for district attorney in San Francisco in 2002. At that time, she saw firsthand the need for a program that would provide women with the tools and resources to navigate the political landscape successfully. Since its inception, Emerge has been a driving force for empowering women in politics. The organization boasts over 6,500 alumni who have participated in its training programs, and more than 1,200 of these alumni currently hold political office at various levels of government.
A'shanti Gholar, the president and CEO of Emerge, spoke about Harris' importance to the organization, calling her "the original Emerge woman." Gholar emphasized that Harris continues to be a strong advocate for women in elected office, helping pave the way for others to follow in her footsteps. "She is an honorary co-founder of our organization," Gholar said, highlighting Harris’ lasting influence and commitment to supporting women’s political advancement.
The 20th anniversary gala is not just a celebration of the organization's past successes but also a moment to reaffirm its dedication to future goals. Gholar expressed excitement about honoring the organization's legacy, noting that the ongoing fight for a better future remains central to Emerge’s mission. The gala will feature additional speakers, including New Mexico State Senator Cindy Nava, Arizona Governor Katie Hobbs, and Deja Foxx, a prominent content creator who played a key role in Harris' presidential campaign as the head of influencer strategy.
The event, which is set to begin at 7 p.m. on Wednesday, has sold out in terms of general admission tickets. However, tickets for young professionals and Emerge alumni have also sold out. For those who cannot attend in person, the gala will be streamed virtually for a fee of $25. Virtual tickets can be purchased online, offering a chance for a broader audience to engage with the event from anywhere.
The significance of Harris’ involvement in this event cannot be overstated. As the first female Vice President of the United States, Harris' journey has inspired countless women to pursue leadership roles. Her appearance at the Emerge anniversary gala serves as a reminder of the continued importance of supporting women who are passionate about making a difference in politics and public service.
With the political landscape ever-evolving, especially following the recent election, this event is an important moment for women in the Democratic Party. The presence of such influential figures and the focus on training the next generation of leaders highlights the enduring need for greater representation and diversity in politics. The Emerge program remains dedicated to providing women with the tools they need to succeed, and Harris’ keynote address will undoubtedly serve as a source of inspiration for all who attend or watch the event virtually.
