Freedom's Frontier: Kamala Harris and the DNC's Masterclass in Political Evolution

I believe that the 2024 Democratic National Convention (DNC) will likely be remembered as a defining moment in American politics. The DNC organizers, along with Vice Presidential candidate Kamala Harris and her running mate, Tim Walsh, delivered a masterclass in political strategy—a resounding success that captivated the nation. With a patriotic display featuring American flags, tributes to military veterans, and appearances by supportive Republican leaders, the Democratic Party showcased its evolution. The convention's impact was further emphasized by the announcement of 220,000 new volunteers and $540 million in donations since the launch of Kamala’s campaign, signaling strong momentum as the presidential race enters its final weeks.

The same foundational principles that built Colorado Springs can be found in the key unifying themes of the 2024 DNC, led by Kamala Harris

In 1910, my pioneering great-grandparents, alongside their children and in collaboration with the wealthy Hagermans and businessman Henry Sachs, played a crucial role in shaping the Western Frontier and the political landscape of Colorado Springs. This city, founded by General William Palmer—a Quaker and Civil War hero who developed a non-segregated public school system—attracted hardworking people from all classes and races. Today, we see the fruits of this foundation of unity and progress forged through connectedness. In 2024, U.S. News & World Report ranked Colorado Springs as the third best place to live in the United States, marking the fifth time in the last six years.

The same foundational principles that built Colorado Springs can be found in the key unifying themes of the 2024 DNC, led by Kamala Harris:

• Freedom as a core American value
• Patriotism and love for country
• Inclusivity and diversity
• Economic opportunity and social justice
• Strong leadership in challenging times
• Optimism for America’s future

At the heart of the DNC’s success lies a subtle yet profound shift in messaging, spearheaded by Vice Presidential candidate Kamala Harris. Her pivot from Biden’s emphasis on "democracy" to a focus on "freedom" resonates deeply with Americans from all walks of life. This shift is not merely a change in rhetoric but represents a reconnection with a fundamental American ideal—one that has galvanized diverse groups throughout the nation’s history, including my family and the communities in which I was raised.

From European immigrants seeking freedom from monarchical rule and feudalism to Native Americans fighting for their sovereignty, from African Americans breaking the chains of slavery to newcomers from Latin America, the Caribbean, and Asia-Pacific pursuing opportunity at America's shores—the concept of freedom has been a unifying thread in the American story.

Kamala's Clan: A New Team for a New Era

The early signs of this transformative approach can be seen in Harris's carefully assembled team of advisors. At the helm is campaign manager Julie Chavez Rodriguez, granddaughter of legendary labor leader Cesar Chavez. Rodriguez's background in grassroots organizing, honed through years of marches and pickets, is expected to play a crucial role in the campaign's strategy to win the White House.

Joining Rodriguez is a cadre of experienced political operatives:

1. David Plouffe, the mastermind behind Barack Obama's successful 2008 and 2012 campaigns, has signed on as a senior advisor.
2. Stephanie Cutter, Obama's deputy campaign manager in 2012, brings her strategic acumen to the team.
3. Mitch Stewart, who led Obama's grassroots efforts, will apply his expertise to Harris's campaign.
4. David Binder, responsible for Obama's public research operation, joins to provide crucial data-driven insights.
5. Jennifer Palmieri, a veteran of both the Obama White House and Hillary Clinton's 2016 campaign, will serve as a senior advisor to second gentleman Doug Emhoff.

This blend of experience and fresh perspectives positions Harris's campaign to resonate with a broad spectrum of the American electorate.

Kamala Harris's ascent to the national stage is, in many ways, a continuation of a century-long struggle for progress and representation. More than 100 years ago, my great-aunt Kimbal Stroud Goffman, a political strategist and writer for The Atlantic , was laying the groundwork for this moment. She organized the first Black and Latino voting blocs in Denver and Colorado, advising the governor and paving the way for future generations.

My grandfather, Tandy Stroud, a scholar-athlete who attended Howard University, continued this legacy of progress. As the first person of color to publish a newspaper in the Rocky Mountain region, The Voice of Colorado , he used his platform to advocate for minority and women's rights. His powerful voice reached as far as the Young Republicans convention , where he spoke to President Hoover in Colorado Springs about the urgent need to end Black lynching.

Rounding out this trio of trailblazers was my great-aunt Lu Lu Stroud Pollard. A graduate of Howard University and a member of (Kamala Harris') Alpha Kappa Alpha sorority, she rose to become one of the highest-ranking women and person of color in the U.S. government, from Washington DC and highly classified work on the USSR to Fort Carson, Colorado. Her legacy is honored by the Lu Lu Pollard Park in Colorado Springs, and her contributions are preserved in the Colorado Springs Pioneers Museum .

Colorado and The Hagermans: Building Community

In 1910, seeking better opportunities and education for their children, KD and Lulu moved their young family to Colorado Springs. My great grandparents and their eleven children resided at 810 North Walnut Street on the west side of town (shown in the photo below). A short distance away at 944 North Walnut, the street expanded into a park-like estate owned by the heirs of J.J. Hagerman , who amassed a fortune in Colorado gold and silver mines, railroads and banking. The Stroud children often worked for Elinor (Hagerman) Lewellyn, the granddaughter of Hagerman. Knowing they often did not have enough to eat, she allowed them to use part of her land to grow food for themselves. In exchange the Stroud Brothers Trucking Company, the city's first subscription-based trash and ash-hauling company provided free or discounted services to Elinor and her family.

The Strouds and Hagermans worked together to build Colorado Springs, contributing to its educational systems, churches, and arts. During the Great Depression, the Hagermans' generosity allowed the Strouds to cultivate produce on a section of their farmland, a gesture that epitomized the spirit of community that would define their relationship.

The tale of two Walnut Street families exemplifies the enduring strength of community and shared values in American society. At 810 North Walnut, my great grandparents' modest home bustled with the energy of their eleven children. Just down the road at 944 North Walnut, the Hagerman estate stood as a symbol of Colorado Springs' early prosperity.

What makes this story exceptional is not the contrast between the families but the deep connection they forged. Elinor Hagerman, more than just a wealthy neighbor, became an integral part of the Stroud family's life. She assisted in birthing several of the 11 Stroud children, recognizing early on the exceptional potential within them. Elinor actively encouraged interaction between the Hagerman and Stroud children, appreciating the Strouds' remarkable record of academic excellence.

This relationship, built on mutual respect and shared aspirations, continued through the generations. When the once-grand Hagerman estate fell into disrepair, it was my cousin and mentor, Carl Bourgeoi s—son of Bobby Stroud (the baby being held by Elinor above)—who stepped in to restore the property to its former glory. Carl, embodying the values of community service and historical preservation instilled by both the Stroud and Hagerman families, saw an opportunity to honor the legacy of both families and the neighborhood they called home.

Today, the restored Hagerman property serves as a gathering place for the entire community. Each July 4th, our family hosts a vibrant Independence Day celebration, welcoming neighbors from all walks of life. The image of the event captures the spirit of inclusivity and joy, with diverse groups of people sharing meals and conversation on the sunlit lawn, surrounded by the historic stone wall that has witnessed generations of friendship and cooperation.

More than just a party, this annual celebration is yet another example of the power of freedom and its twin brothers—connectedness and unity. It represents the enduring bonds between the Stroud and Hagerman families and serves as a powerful reminder of how communities can thrive when people come together across racial, social, and economic lines. The story of Walnut Street serves as an inspiring example of the American ideal—a place where shared values, mutual respect, and a commitment to community can create a legacy that enriches lives for generations to come.

Henry Sachs and the Gillette Razor: A Legacy of Education

The story of progress in Colorado Springs took another significant turn with the arrival of Henry Sachs, a Jewish businessman from Boston who had invested in the fledgling Gillette Safety Razor Company .

Suffering from tuberculosis, Sachs was driven from Boston to Colorado by his chauffeur (James Jefferies) and housemaid (Gertrude Lee), who nursed him back to health. Once in Colorado, Sachs formed a close friendship with the Stroud family, often visiting their home on Walnut Street, where he would play the children's violin —albeit poorly.

In 1927, at a weekend picnic in Colorado Springs, the seeds of a transformative idea were planted. Moved by the discrimination faced by the Stroud family, particularly the limited educational opportunities for their brilliant daughter Effie, Sachs offered to pay for her education at Colorado College. This act of generosity sparked a conversation with KD Stroud who suggested creating an educational foundation .

In 1931, the Sachs Foundation was established, with Effie's older brother, Dolphus Stroud, receiving the first scholarship. Upon Sachs's death in 1952, the foundation inherited his estate, enabling it to support thousands of Black Coloradans in their educational pursuits over the decades.

Today, every Gillette razor sold contributes to this enduring legacy of educational support for underserved communities. It's a testament to how personal relationships and a commitment to progress can create ripples that extend far beyond their original context.

A Century of Unity and Progress

As we witness Kamala Harris's historic campaign, we are reminded of the long arc of progress that has led us to this moment. From KD Stroud's journey out of Texas to the pioneering work of his children in Colorado Springs, from Henry Sachs's vision of educational equity to the diverse and experienced team now surrounding Harris, we see a century of striving for unity and progress.

Harris's emphasis on freedom as a unifying concept echoes the struggles and triumphs of generations past.

I believe the 2024 DNC may have successfully rebranded the Democratic Party as one that embraces traditional American values while advocating for progressive policies. By focusing on freedom, unity, and optimism, Harris and the party leadership aim to broaden their appeal and present a vision for the country that could resonate with a wide range of voters. The next ten weeks will determine if they have created a movement that can lead to significant voter turnout.