In a bid to strengthen her enchantment amongst Black males within the upcoming November election, US vice chairman Kamala Harris introduced an intensive set of financial insurance policies on Monday. This initiative, known as the “Alternative Agenda for Black males,” goals to solidify an important voting bloc aheadof the presidential election, the place latest polls present a decline in help for Democrats, in line with USA As we speak.
Forgivable loans
Harris’ proposals embody providing a million “absolutely forgivable” loans to Black enterprise homeowners, designed to assist those that lack the mandatory sources and connections to launch their enterprises. The loans, which may attain as much as $20,000, will likely be administered by way of a brand new partnership with the Small Enterprise Administration.
Marijuana legalisation
Moreover, Harris known as for nationwide legalisation of marijuana for leisure use, aiming to make sure that Black entrepreneurs acquire entry to the hashish business. Her marketing campaign stated, “Kamala Harris will battle to make sure, because the nationwide hashish business takes form, Black males – who’ve, for years, been over-policed for marijuana use – are in a position to entry wealth and jobs on this new market.” This transfer may be very totally different from how the earlier administration dealt with issues. President Joe Biden‘s workforce has lately labored to vary marijuana’s classification from a Schedule I drug to a Schedule III drug.
Addressing voter considerations
The disclosing of those insurance policies comes because the Harris marketing campaign faces stress from inside, significantly as former President Donald Trump features traction amongst Black male voters. Latest polls point out that Harris leads Trump by a margin of 78%-15% amongst Black voters, a big drop from the 90% help Biden obtained in 2020.
Harris will talk about her financial agenda at a Black-owned enterprise in Erie, Pennsylvania, earlier than a marketing campaign rally later within the night. Former President Barack Obama additionally weighed in, urging Black males to rally behind Harris, noting that some hesitation comes from her being a girl.
Defending cryptocurrency buyers and increasing training
Harris’ agenda consists of laws for cryptocurrency to safeguard buyers. The marketing campaign highlighted that greater than 20% of Black Individuals personal or have owned cryptocurrency belongings, signalling the significance of this measure.
Harris additionally goals to develop training and mentorship alternatives for Black males. Key initiatives embody growing the variety of Black male academics, selling registered apprenticeships, and enhancing the federal Public Service Mortgage Forgiveness Programme to draw and retain Black male educators.
Well being fairness initiative
Moreover, Harris plans to launch a well being fairness initiative targeted on addressing well being points disproportionately affecting African Individuals, together with sickle cell illness, diabetes, and psychological well being challenges.
