By Megan Sayles
AFRO Business Writer
msayles@afro.com
Vice President Kamala Harris traveled to Prince George’s County, Md. on Dec. 17 to praise Maryland students who are participating in the state’s Service Year Option, a public service program for high school graduates launched by Governor Wes Moore in October 2023.
The speech, given at Prince George’s County Community College, marked Harris’ most extensive address since her concession to the president-elect in November. During her remarks, the vice president not only expressed her gratitude for the young people’s commitment to service, but encouraged them to remain in the fight despite any disappointment they may feel over the outcome of the 2024 election.
“In moments like this, the true test of our character is how resilient and persistent we are to pursue the future that we all can see,” said Harris. The true test of our commitment is whether, in the face of an obstacle, do we throw up our hands, or do we roll up our sleeves?”
The vice president noted that many people have told her they feel tired and resigned, but she urged them to push on.
“Let me be very clear, no one can walk away,” said Harris. “We must stay in the fight—everyone of us, including the fight for an economy that works, not just for those at the top but for working people [and] all Americans; the fight to make sure everyone has a fair shot to pursue their ambitions; [and] the fight for our ideals, including the equality among us, the freedoms to which we are entitled [and] the dignity that we possess and is possessed by every one of us.”
Harris called public service a noble calling that serves as an expression of optimism, as those who dedicate themselves to it believe that the help they provide creates true impact. She challenged the students to start the new year prepared to chart the country’s path forward.
“Each one of you has decided to dedicate yourself to the work of service, the work of lifting up the condition of other people— people who often you may never meet,” said Harris. “The work you do in service will affect people who, for the most part, will never know your names. But, their lives, because of your work and your dedication, will forever be touched in a positive way.”
Maryland’s Service Year Option is the first of its kind in the U.S., and states, like New York and Utah, have sought to follow its lead. The program was a cornerstone of Moore’s promise to elevate Maryland’s public education system during his campaign for governor.
In it, high school graduates are paired with apprenticeship programs, nonprofits, businesses and government agencies throughout the state to gain on-the-job training, mentorship, exposure to career avenues and money management skills. Participants earn $15 an hour, working at least 30 hours per week, and $6,000 toward college tuition or as a cash stipend when they complete the program.
More than 50 percent of the inaugural cohort, which graduated in July, were people of color, and over 75 percent of the members joined the program without a college degree.
Before Harris took the stage, Moore addressed the young people himself, explaining his cause for excitement over the students participating in the service year.
“At a time when everything feels dark, you give us light. At a time when everything feels a little bit shaky, you provide the stability,” said Moore. “You are the change we’ve been waiting for, and you will lead us to a rock that is higher than I. You are not just a campaign promise completed. You are the promise of our future.”
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