Why Kamala Harris is Considered a DEI Hire: A Comprehensive Analysis

The argument surrounding Kamala Harris's selection as Vice President and the label of 'DEI hire' is often met with criticism and misunderstanding. This article aims to clarify the reasoning behind her nomination and the underlying principles of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI).

Reasons for Her Nomination

David mentioned that Kamala Harris's strong personality might have caused 'weak men to fear her,' suggesting that some see her as a 'DEI hire' due to her gender and racial background. However, a more critical question is: why do we see Kamala Harris as a DEI candidate, and why do we not extend the same reasoning to white candidates?

The fact that Kamala Harris is a brown-skinned woman played a significant role in her selection by Joe Biden. Women and African-Americans form a substantial voting bloc, and the choice of a representative from this demographic could be seen as a strategic move to appeal to this group. It is important to acknowledge that surface-level decision-making such as race and gender can be influenced by shallow reasoning, but equally important to recognize the deeper principles of diversity and inclusion.

Core Beliefs and Flexibility

Another aspect to consider is Kamala Harris's core beliefs and her flexibility in adapting to various situations. Her approach can be seen as a 'human weather vane,' shifting according to the prevailing winds. While this flexibility might not be ideal for every candidate, it does make her a suitable figure for promoting the values of diversity and inclusion.

It is also worth noting that Kamala Harris's extensive public service record is unparalleled. With 35 years of experience in public service, including 21 years in elected offices at different levels of government (judicial, legislative, and executive), her qualifications stand out. Only two other presidents had comparable public service experience: Martin Van Buren and Harry Truman. By contrast, Barack Obama's experience was more limited, with just 12 years in the Illinois and US Senate, and Donald Trump's qualifications were far from impressive, described as a 'trust fund crybaby' and 'lousy businessman' with little real-world experience.

Support for DEI in a Democratic Society

Those who question Kamala Harris's inclusion within the DEI framework often bring up an erroneous perspective. DEI goes beyond mere surface-level optics; it encompasses principles of inclusivity and equity. It is about ensuring that diverse voices are heard, and efforts are made to promote equal opportunities for all. The argument that Kamala Harris is 'DEI' because she supports Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion is a valid one, and it reflects the values that Americans generally support in a democratic society.

In a democracy, the principles enshrined in the preamble of the Constitution, such as equality before the law and the pursuit of happiness, are crucial. The promotion of DEI is not a form of political correctness, but rather a genuine effort to ensure that everyone, regardless of their background, has an equal chance to succeed.

Kamala Harris, with her extensive experience and unwavering commitment to these principles, stands as an embodiment of what a DEI hire should be. Her nomination reflects a broader commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion in the United States, and her efforts to promote these values should be celebrated.