Kamala Harris Watch Party at Howard University: A Night to Remember

By: Angela Harris, MBA, MIM

It’s taken me a moment to process the election outcome, to find words for both the disappointment and the resilience witnessed as an invited guest to the Harris-Walz election night watch party. The significance of the moment should not be overshadowed by how things turned out. The watch party at Howard University was more than just an event — it was a powerful, beautiful, historic moment. It marked the first time a political watch party was held on a college campus. In typical Kamala Harris style, it was different and reflected her deep appreciation for her HBCU experience. And we got to experience it in comfortable shoes!

From the beginning, it felt like stepping into a vision of possibility. The air was charged with excitement, anticipation, and pride. Black culture and political decorum blended in a way that felt like a celebration of all that we are and all we aim to become. There was dancing and singing to our music from genres of Hip Hop and R&B. Gospel voices from the Howard Gospel Choir rose above the crowd, lifting spirits and reminding us of the resilience that has carried our people through countless trials.

The Yard was lit with fellowship and love. I was thrilled to reconnect with some of my past Howard University students who are now making their own impact in the world. And then there was the powerful presence of the Divine Nine, grounding the event in tradition. We witnessed what might have been the longest line dance of AKAs ever assembled!

For a moment, it felt like a dream we could hold in our hands — a glimpse into a future we’ve long dreamed of, where representation, progress, and hope came together. It was more than just a political gathering; it was a celebration of Black identity, power, patriotism, and potential, all right there on Howard’s campus, a historic monument to Black excellence.

The election outcome may have slipped through our fingers this time, but that night confirmed for me that the dream is not lost. As a community, we’re still here, holding on to hope, envisioning a future that reflects the beauty of that night. And we’ll keep pushing forward until that vision becomes reality.