The intentional mispronunciation of Vice President Kamala Harris’ name by former President Donald Trump and his team is more than a simple linguistic error—it’s a calculated move to dehumanize and demean her. This practice, repeatedly aired on news and social media platforms, carries with it deep racial undertones that speak volumes about Trump’s political tactics. Using subtle racial disrespect as a weapon, he aims to undermine Harris not just as a political opponent, but as a woman of color in a position of power.
Trump’s continued mispronunciation resonates with his base, many of whom harbor anti-Black sentiments, and it only deepens the divisions within American society. By reducing Harris to a caricature through the distortion of her name, he not only disrespects her identity but also perpetuates harmful stereotypes that have long been used to marginalize people of color. This tactic of “othering” someone by distorting their name has long been a tool of racial oppression, and Trump’s team is fully aware of its power.
The media’s role in allowing this mispronunciation to go unchecked must also be scrutinized. Each time Harris’ name is distorted without correction, it tacitly endorses the disrespect. Journalists, therefore, have a responsibility to call out these instances and refuse to tolerate such behavior in interviews or broadcasts. By doing so, they not only defend basic human respect but also stand against the subtle racism inherent in such actions.
For the LGBTQ community and other marginalized groups, the effects of such dehumanization can be deeply personal. Trump’s disrespect for Harris is symbolic of the broader struggles many face in being acknowledged for who they truly are, whether it’s their identity, their gender, or their pronouns. Standing up against these harmful practices is not just a political stance—it’s an affirmation of dignity and humanity.