In a dazzling display of unity and purpose, Dallas, Texas, hosted the 71st international conference of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc.®, where over 20,000 spirited sorority sisters gathered to hear from their esteemed sister, Vice President Kamala Harris. Donning a suit in the sorority's signature colors, Harris embodied the essence of sisterhood and service.

Empathy Amidst Adversity

Vice President Harris opened her speech with heartfelt empathy for those affected by Hurricane Beryl, recognizing the ongoing struggles and applauding first responders' relentless efforts. She affirmed President Biden's major disaster declaration for Texas, showcasing the administration’s commitment to recovery and support.

America's Promise: A Vision of Equality and Opportunity

Reflecting on the Biden administration's dedication to equality and fair treatment, Harris drew connections between her Alpha Kappa Alpha heritage and America's promise. She emphasized that the legacy of sisterhood and service, rooted in the sorority since 1908, mirrors the nation's ideals of freedom and opportunity for all.

Healthcare Milestones and Advocacy

Highlighting the administration’s achievements, Harris proudly discussed efforts to reduce insulin costs, a significant move for many African Americans disproportionately affected by diabetes. "We took on Big Pharma and capped the cost of insulin for our elders at $35 a month," she declared, underscoring the administration’s resolve to bring tangible benefits to citizens.

Tackling Debt and Maternal Mortality

Vice President Harris celebrated progress in alleviating student loan and medical debt, noting that nearly 5 million Americans have benefited from student loan forgiveness. She also addressed maternal mortality, announcing the expansion of Medicaid coverage for postpartum care to a full year in 46 states. Additionally, she unveiled a new initiative establishing national health and safety standards for maternal care, ensuring hospitals are equipped with lifesaving medical equipment.

A Call to Action: Voting, Gun Violence, and Women’s Rights

Despite these accomplishments, Harris emphasized that the fight continues. She passionately spoke about the importance of voting, tackling gun violence, combating bigotry and hate, protecting the freedom to love, teaching comprehensive American history, and upholding women's rights to make decisions about their bodies. 

Inspiration and Legacy

Her closing call to action was a powerful reminder of the ongoing mission: "Let us fight for freedom, opportunity, and equality. Let us, as always, fight with optimism, faith, and hope. And let us see it through, because when we fight, we win."

Record-Breaking Community Service

During the conference, Alpha Kappa Alpha set a Guinness World Record by assembling 8,500 personal hygiene kits in one hour, surpassing the previous record by 2,364 kits. This remarkable achievement reflects the sorority's unwavering commitment to community service and support.

Vice President Kamala Harris’s address was more than a reflection on past achievements; it was a clarion call to action, inspiring Alpha Kappa Alpha sisters to continue their legacy of service and sisterhood in their communities.

For more info, visit AKA1908.com or WhiteHouse.gov