Harris Drops F-Bomb, Urges Audience to “Kick That F***ing Door Down”
Vice President Kamala Harris drew cheers and laughter when she emphatically urged attendees at an Asian American leadership summit to break down barriers.
Harris used forceful language, telling the crowd “Sometimes people won’t open the door for you, and then you need to kick that f***ing door down!”
The memorable comment came during Harris’ conversation with comedian Jimmy O. Yang at the Asian Pacific American Institute for Congressional Studies (APAICS) Legislative Leadership Summit. Yang joked they should make t-shirts with the Vice President’s powerful phrase.
Breaking Barriers Requires Perseverance
Harris reflected on her own journey as the first woman, African American, and Asian American vice president.
She credited her Indian American mother’s advice not to let others define her. Harris emphasized breaking barriers inevitably involves struggles and setbacks.
“Breaking barriers does not mean you start on one side and end up on the other,” she said. “There’s breaking involved. When you break things, you get cut and may bleed. And it is worth it every time.”
A Call to Amplify Underrepresented Voices
The Vice President urged younger attendees and those underrepresented to raise their voices boldly. She encouraged them to “walk in those rooms chin up, shoulders back” even if they are “the only one that looks like you.”
Harris reminded them, “We are all in that room with you…your voice can be strong.” She cited her mother again: “Don’t you ever let anybody tell you who you are. You tell them who you are.”
Protecting Reproductive Rights and Curbing Gun Violence
Harris passionately addressed key issues like reproductive rights after the Dobbs decision and curbing gun violence. She expressed hope young voters experiencing realities like active shooter drills will drive “a sea change” on such issues.
The Vice President called on AANHPI leaders to exercise their power, reminding them their advocacy impacts not just America but the global fight against autocracy.
“We believe in the promise of America,” she proclaimed, rallying them to determine its future through action.
