How Greek Life and HBCUs shaped Kamala Harris and a Generation of Black Students

Aug 19, 2024

Kamala Harris, the first elected president from an HBCU and a member of Alpha Kappa Alpha sorority, shares her transformative journey shaped by collegiate institutions. She discusses the rich history and cultural significance of HBCUs, highlighting their role in fostering identity and activism in the Black community. Conversations delve into the vibrant 1980s at Howard University, the socio-political landscape influencing students, and the impact of Black Greek life on political mobilization. Harris reflects on how these experiences equipped her for leadership and activism.

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Intro

00:00 • 2min

Kamala Harris and The Divine Nine

01:48 • 11min

Shaping Identity: The Influence of HBCUs and Greek Life on Kamala Harris

12:28 • 2min

Howard University in the 1980s: A Cultural Hub

14:34 • 15min

Empowerment Through HBCUs: Kamala Harris's Journey

29:17 • 4min

Empowerment Through Greek Life

33:15 • 15min

Listener Engagement and Community Highlights

48:12 • 3min

The Vice President came of age inside collegiate institutions that have shaped Black, middle-class culture for generations. She says they imprinted deeply upon her as well.

Kamala Harris's story is remarkable in numerous ways. If elected president, she’ll be the first coming from several life experiences, including one that many Black commentators have noticed: She’d be the first president who’s a graduate of an HBCU, and a member of one of the “Divine Nine” Black sororities and fraternities. She called her time at Howard University, and her membership in the Alpha Kappa Alpha sorority, an important part of her journey. So what can we learn about the would-be president by looking at those institutions?

In this episode, host Kai Wright discusses who the “Divine Nine” are and why they were created with Lawrence Ross, and then chats with historian Dr. Natalie Hopkinson. Political analyst Dr. Christina Greer gives us cultural context on how HBCUs like Howard shaped not only Harris, but a whole generation of Black university students. She talks about the influence of Black Greek life, and the nuanced politics of the 1980s.

Every summer we crowdsource a Spotify playlist with our listeners built around a particular theme. This year, for the third edition of our seasonal soundtrack, we are asking you to contribute a song that represents your political identity or political priorities in 2024.

See how the collection is shaping up so far

, and add yours to the mix by leaving a message at 844-745-8255. Be sure to share your first name, where you’re calling from and a little bit about what the song represents for you in the context of the 2024 election.

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