Lessons from Shirley Chisholm to Kamala Harris: The Evolution of Black Women’s Political Power

From Shirley Chisholm’s historic run for the presidency in 1972 to Kamala Harris’s recent tenure as the first Black woman Vice President, Black women’s political power in the United States has been a remarkable journey of resilience, vision, and trailblazing. The paths taken by Chisholm, Harris, and countless other Black women have left an indelible legacy that continues to inspire future generations of leaders. However, this journey is not without its challenges, as it also highlights the persistent barriers and biases that black women face in the political arena.

By examining the evolution of Black women’s political power,  gain valuable insights into lessons learned, the milestones achieved, and the unfinished work ahead. Here are some key insights from this extraordinary journey.

1. Breaking the Mold: Redefining Political Leadership

When Shirley Chisholm declared, “I am not the candidate of Black America, although I am Black and proud. I am not the candidate of the women’s movement of this country, although I am a woman and equally proud of that,” she shattered preconceived notions of who could lead. Chisholm’s candidacy asserted that Black women could speak for all Americans while unapologetically embracing their identity.

Lesson: Black women in politics defy expectations and don’t need to conform to conventional molds. Their leadership encompasses a multifaceted commitment to their communities and a broader, inclusive vision for America. Kamala Harris exemplified this by skillfully balancing her roles as a former prosecutor, senator, and Vice President with a steadfast dedication to justice, equity, and representation.

2. The Power of Firsts—and What Follows

Both Chisholm and Harris hold the distinction of being the first Black women in their respective political positions, but being the first comes with unique challenges. For Chisholm, it meant running a presidential campaign with little support from her party and enduring both racial and gender bias. For Harris, it meant navigating a political landscape that often questioned her credibility and motives simply because of her identity.

Lesson: Each “first” opens doors for those who follow, yet Black women in these roles are often expected to be everything to everyone. The responsibility of being the “first” is heavy, but it’s also transformative, showing younger generations that their dreams are valid and achievable.

3. Bridging Communities Through Intersectionality

Black women in politics have often found themselves at the intersection of multiple communities—racial, gender, economic, and more. Chisholm and Harris each had to balance these identities, knowing they represented more than one “first.” This intersectional experience has given Black women leaders a unique ability to bridge communities and address various issues, from economic to criminal justice reform.

Lesson: Intersectional leadership, which Black women often bring to politics, enables them to connect with diverse constituencies. They can advocate for inclusive policies, understanding that progress for one community can uplift many others. This legacy is one of Black women's greatest strengths to the political sphere.

4. The Importance of Community and Collective Power

Chisholm famously said, “If they don’t give you a seat at the table, bring a folding chair.” This spirit of determination has persisted to this day, reminding Black women that their power often lies not solely in individual accomplishments but in the strength of collective support and community.

Lesson: Black women’s political influence is amplified when they uplift and support each other’s endeavors. Organizations such as Higher Heights for America, Black Voters Matter, and countless grassroots movements exemplify this collective power. In part, Kamala Harris’s success was due to the community of Black women who believed in her vision and understood the broader significance of her victory.

5. Navigating Media and Public Perception

Chisholm and Harris encountered unique challenges in the media’s scrutiny of their appearances, personalities, and qualifications. Chisholm’s coverage often focused on her “outsider” status as a Black woman, while Harris’s campaign faced questions about her “likability” and “authenticity”—standards rarely applied to male candidates.

Lesson: Black women in politics have had to develop resilience in the face of biased media narratives. However, this challenge has also honed their communication skills, enabling them to navigate the complexities of public perception. Their ability to remain authentic amid public scrutiny is a testament to their strength and self-assurance.

6. A Legacy of Policy and Advocacy

Black women in politics, from Shirley Chisholm to Kamala Harris, have been trailblazers in advocating for policies that address the needs of their communities. Chisholm fought for educational access and employment opportunities, while Harris has been a vocal advocate for criminal justice reform and women’s rights. Their unwavering commitment t to substantive change, rather than symbolic victories, underscores the enduring legacy of Black women in politics.

Lesson: Black women’s political influence extends beyond mere representation; it’s about real policy impact. Their work centers on making meaningful changes that benefit marginalized communities, and their advocacy often leads to policies that advance equity and justice for all.

7. The Future: Building on a Legacy and Inspiring the Next Generation

Shirley Chisholm’s campaign paved the way for future Black women in politics, and Kamala Harris’s Vice Presidency continues that legacy. As more Black women enter politics, the evolution of their power will only grow. Today’s Black women leaders, from activists to elected officials, are building on this legacy and paving the way for even more progress.

Lesson: The future of Black women in politics is about expanding possibilities and pushing further boundaries. Initiatives like She the People, EMERGE, and the Black Girls Guide to Policy are programs that prepare and empower Black women to lead, ensuring that this legacy endures.

Moving Forward with the Spirit of Chisholm and Harris

The journey from Shirley Chisholm to Kamala Harris has been arduous yet one  of the most powerful stories in American political history. Black women have transcended the periphery and become pivotal figures in political discourse, proving time and again that they are not just participants in the system but vital to its progress.

As we look toward the future, the political influence of Black women continues to evolve. With each victory, each policy change, and each “first” broken, their legacy grows stronger. The path forged by Shirley Chisholm and expanded upon by Kamala Harris embodies  courage, resilience, and a fierce commitment to justice. Nevertheless, the journey is far from over.