Harris vows to continue fighting for rights after election loss

In an emotional concession speech at Howard University, US Vice President Kamala Harris acknowledged her loss in the presidential race to Donald Trump but vowed to continue the fight for the values that fueled her campaign.

Speaking to a crowd of supporters, many visibly upset, Harris emphasised that while the election results were not what they hoped for, her commitment to the issues that mattered most to her would remain unshaken.

"While I concede this election, I do not concede the fight that fueled this campaign," Harris told the audience, her voice at times wavering with emotion. "I will continue fighting for women’s rights, against gun violence, and for the dignity that all people deserve."

Harris, who had called Trump to congratulate him on his victory and promised a peaceful transfer of power, underscored the importance of accepting election outcomes as a cornerstone of American democracy.

"A fundamental principle of American democracy is that when we lose an election, we accept the results," she said, noting the contrast with Trump’s false claims about the legitimacy of the 2020 election.

"That principle, as much as any other, distinguishes democracy from monarchy or tyranny, and anyone who seeks the public trust must honor it."

Despite her loss, Harris offered a message of hope to her supporters, especially young people. "Sometimes the fight takes a while. That doesn't mean we won't win," she said, urging them to stay optimistic despite the outcome. "I know many people feel like we are entering a dark time, but for the benefit of us all, I hope that is not the case."

The scene at Howard University was strikingly different from the election night just hours earlier when thousands gathered in anticipation of what many hoped would be a historic victory.

Harris had campaigned on the promise of being the first graduate of a historically Black college to become president, but on Wednesday, the mood was solemn. As she entered the stage, her campaign anthem, Beyoncé's "Freedom," played in the background, offering a bittersweet reminder of the energy and hope that had filled the campus just days before.

In her speech, Harris reminded her supporters that even in times of uncertainty, optimism and resilience must prevail. "If this is a dark time, let us fill the sky with the light of a brilliant, brilliant billion of stars... the light of optimism, of faith, of truth and service," she said, invoking the power of collective action to keep pushing for change.

Harris's words resonated with many in the crowd, who, despite their disappointment, found solace in her unwavering resolve to continue the fight for justice and equality.

As the crowd slowly dispersed, there was a sense of resolve: the work, for many, was far from over.