In a powerful intersection of history and progress, Vice President Kamala Harris signed the Shirley Chisholm Congressional Gold Medal Act, posthumously awarding the highest civilian honor to a woman whose legacy reshaped American politics.
For Harris—the first Black female vice president—this moment was deeply personal, symbolizing a baton passed from one trailblazer to another.
Shirley Chisholm, who made history in 1968 as the first Black woman elected to Congress and shattered ceilings again as the first African American to seek a major party’s presidential nomination in 1972, left an indelible mark on American democracy.
Her bold campaign slogan, “Unbought and Unbossed,” continues to inspire generations of leaders fighting for equality and justice.
The ceremony took place on Capitol Hill, where Harris, flanked by Congresswoman Barbara Lee, Senator Laphonza Butler, and other dignitaries, signed the bill before sending it to President Joe Biden’s desk for final approval.
The act celebrates not only Chisholm’s pioneering achievements but also her relentless advocacy for racial and gender equality, early education, and child welfare.
“Shirley Chisholm opened doors that many of us walk through today,” said Harris, who has long cited Chisholm as a political inspiration. “Her strength, vision, and courage transformed what was possible for women, for African Americans, and for anyone who dared to dream big.”
Congresswoman Lee, a mentee of Chisholm, has championed the legislation for years and expressed her gratitude for Harris’ personal involvement in signing the act.
“This Congressional Gold Medal is not just about honoring her—it’s about keeping her story alive and reminding the world of her incredible contributions,” Lee stated.
Chisholm’s legacy is further immortalized through her foundational role in establishing the Congressional Black Caucus and her advocacy for policies benefiting underserved communities.
Vice President Harris, who incorporated the colors of Chisholm’s presidential campaign into her own bid for the presidency in 2019, reflected on Chisholm’s enduring influence.
“I stand on her shoulders,” Harris has often said, crediting Chisholm with paving the way for women of color in politics.
As Harris continues to break barriers, the act serves as a poignant reminder of the progress sparked by Chisholm’s courage decades ago.
“Shirley Chisholm would be applauding Kamala Harris today,” Lee remarked. “She’d remind us all to keep fighting for the day when America elects its first Black female president—a dream that started with her and continues with Kamala.”
