Harris Brings Economic Opportunity Tour to Atlanta
Vice President Kamala Harris took her economic opportunity tour to Atlanta, Georgia. She visited the 38th Conference of the 100 Black Men of America, Inc. on June 14, 2024.
Her appearance aimed to discuss economic empowerment with the audience. This pivotal stop underlined the importance of the event.
“Give People the Opportunity to Compete”
In a thought-provoking discussion moderated by entertainer Steve Harvey, Harris emphasized her message on economic empowerment.
“It’s about giving people the opportunity to compete, to allow hardworking individuals to not just get by, but to get ahead,” said Vice President Kamala Harris.
Her remarks focused on opportunities for minority-owned businesses, home ownership, debt prevention, and policies to close the racial wealth gap.
Addressing Systemic Obstacles
Harris acknowledged the obstacles built into the system that hinder economic progress.
“There are obstacles built into the system that have to be addressed to give people the opportunity—and it’s not about a handout,” the vice president told the crowd. “It’s about saying, ‘Give people the opportunity to compete, give hardworking people the opportunity to get ahead and not just get by.'”
100 Black Men of America, Inc.
The 100 Black Men of America is the world’s largest volunteer network of Black men focused on mentoring minority youth.
Founded in New York City in 1963, the national organization began with nine chapters in 1986. It has grown to over 4,000 members across 105 chapters, impacting more than 100,000 underserved and underrepresented minority youth annually.
Addressing Atlanta’s History of Racial Inequality
Harris’s trip to Atlanta marked her second visit as part of the economic opportunity tour. Her previous visit in April highlighted a $158 million investment through the Biden-Harris Administration’s Reconnecting Communities and Neighborhoods Program.
This program aims to address the legacy of harm caused by the construction of America’s highway system, which often destroyed thriving Black communities.
Continuing the Conversation on Economic Equity
While Harris’s appearance was not an endorsement from the 100 Black Men of America, Inc., it represented a meaningful conversation about economic opportunity.
The vice president is expected to visit Atlanta again on June 18 to discuss gun violence, continuing her efforts to address pressing issues and promote equity.
