And so it begins...

This one has taken me a few weeks to write. The topic is challenging, and I needed time to gather my thoughts in a way that feels true to the spirit of this community—one of honest and authentic exchanges. I hope you read these words with that intention.

When the conversation began about President Biden potentially stepping out of the race, I felt a sense of frustration—not because of Biden himself, but because of the timing of these discussions and the gravity of what is at stake.

When Vice President Harris emerged as a potential candidate, my reaction was often misunderstood. Some people felt I doubted her competence, but that could not be further from the truth. I knew, without hesitation, that she was fully capable of leading our country—just as I believed eight years ago that Hillary Clinton was. My concern was never about their qualifications; it was about America. I worried that, as a nation, we weren’t ready to elect a Black woman to the highest office. Unfortunately, my fears were confirmed.

Let’s remind ourselves: eight years ago, America struggled with the idea of electing a white woman—an experienced career politician who had served as Secretary of State. So what has changed now that makes us think we are ready to embrace a Black woman in this role? We remain deeply divided as a nation, and I recognize that America is much more than the East and West coasts; many people’s perspectives differ widely from those of urban centers and celebrities. My optimism often battles with my realism here, and the tension between the two is palpable.

As a Black woman, I’ve spent my life navigating two Americas—the privileged and the underserved. I’ve been the first Black woman to hold every senior role I’ve taken on. I grew up in liberal California, went to school with the children of politicians, and had parents who instilled in my sister and me a sense of who we are, along with a responsibility to uplift those less fortunate because of the privileges we were afforded.

I always strive to see the world with hope, yet I also recognize the importance of seeing it as it truly is. Hope is a guide, but seeing reality clearly is what allows us to understand the real challenges we face. Ignoring what is in front of us blinds us to what truly needs changing, and without that understanding, we cannot make meaningful progress.

Every time I was the "first" in my career, I knew that people were watching, some perhaps hoping I’d fail and I hope many were hoping I would succeed. But I didn’t let the nay-sayers deter me. I used it as motivation to recruit, to enlist others in this journey of breaking barriers. Vice President Harris knew the mountain she had to climb, and her campaign was nothing short of impressive. It wasn’t a landslide loss; it was close. That alone should inspire us—it certainly inspires the optimist in me. Change may be slow, but it is within reach if we continue to challenge the status quo, listen to one another with respect, and use our voices and actions to hold leadership accountable.

"The most disrespected person in America is the Black woman. The most unprotected person in America is the Black woman. The most neglected person in America is the Black woman." — Malcolm X, 1962

Vice President Harris ran a remarkable campaign, and I’ve had people challenge that view. My response has been simple: "Name one Presidential candidate who ran a flawless campaign." I’ve yet to receive an answer. As someone with a degree in political science, I watched with admiration. Black women have always risen to the occasion, and Vice President Harris was no exception. Despite her brilliance, she faced unreasonable expectations and disproportionate criticism—held to a different standard than her opponent. Sadly, this is a familiar story for many of us in our professional lives.

Malcolm X’s words from 62 years ago still resonate today. I think of the hurtful comments made about our former First Lady Michelle Obama—words that still sting. I think of the comments I and my fellow sisters in business have faced, and my heart aches. Why must we tear each other down just to feel superior? We are all human beings having a human experience. We are more alike than different. These simple truths deserve our acceptance, not rejection.

"Courage is the most important of all the virtues, because without courage you can’t practice any other virtue consistently." — Maya Angelou

Someone once asked me why I step into places and spaces where I’m not always welcomed. My response was simple: so that the next person who looks like me will have it a little easier. Vice President Harris did just that. She may have been the first Black female Vice President, but I am confident she won’t be the last. I am rooting for the next generation to keep climbing.

So, how do we move forward? For me, it is with intention, accountability, and God. The game is only half over. We’ve made progress, but there is still much work to do. Let’s continue pushing for the change we want to see and be.

I would love to hear your thoughts, so please share. I am rooting for you always. Be kind to each other, give a stranger grace, and let’s keep pushing that rock up the hill. #Onwards

With grace and gratitude,

Amani D.