Gabrielle Union has been her own woman. Acting, producing, activism, being an entrepreneur, and a little later in life, being a mother. So being the power she is, adorning all the hats, Union recognizes a force when she sees one. 2024 Presidential candidate, Kamala Harris’ mother, Shyamala Gopalan Harris, was one such and the Bring It On actress is ensuring she gives the flowers Mrs. Harris deserves.
In a heartfelt LinkedIn post shared shortly after the election, Union celebrated Shyamala Harris, as her “Woman Crush.” Her tribute arrived shortly after Kamala Harris’ re-election defeat in the 2024 presidential race, adding a layer of poignancy to her words.
“To dream as a mother is one thing, but for your child to become a dream for others is a blessing beyond measure. Dr. Shyamala Gopalan Harris embodied that blessing—a remarkable woman whose legacy endures through her daughters, Vice President Kamala Harris and Maya Harris,” wrote Union as the caption of the post.
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Dr. Gopalan Harris’ journey from Chennai, India, as a pioneer in breast cancer research, a civil rights activist, her move to the United States, and a Ph.D from UC Berkley, has been admirable for the Bring It On actress. “breaking barriers as both a scientist and a changemaker at a time when opportunities for women of color were scarce,” she notes. Union’s take on her LinkedIn post, which she linked through her Instagram story was not because of its political stance, but rather because it was a beautiful way of respecting and celebrating a trailblazer who never held public office but created a historic legacy.
“A trailblazer in every sense, Dr. Gopalan Harris instilled in her daughters values of justice, resilience, and service. Her groundbreaking research saved countless lives, and her activism left an indelible mark on the fight for racial equality. She often reminded her daughters, “Never sit around and complain about things; do something,” inspiring them to lead with purpose and determination,” added Gabrielle in her post.
Apart from this, Gabrielle Union had long used her platform to address social issues, often sharing powerful messages on topics ranging from racial injustice to gender equality. She has been an outspoken supporter of the Black Lives Matter movement, condemning racism. Union has also been an advocate for LGBTQ rights supporting her stepdaughter Zaya Wade who came out as a transgender.
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So Union is clear on using her platform to voice her views. “I want to shed light on things that I see as wrong… I get a big microphone because of my job,” she had conveyed via Medium. Come elections, it was no different.
Gabrielle Union’s Instagram post just before the election
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As mentioned before, Gabrielle Union has always been known for her activism and advocacy. This time just days before the election, on Monday, Gabrielle Union shared a lighthearted but determined post about the election.
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In her latest video, Union declares she’s “on her way to save another election with the girls,” all while strutting her stuff to Jordin Sparks’ hit “One Step at a Time.” Gabrielle Union is seen sitting boldly on an outside couch at the beginning of the video. She steps forward to swagger her way ahead after removing her sunglasses with a dramatic flair while wearing a beautiful orange and gray maxi dress.
Her approach reflects her belief that meaningful change happens when people come together, creating an impact beyond individual efforts. Even though the candidate she advocated for has lost, it can be speculated that she will continue to support her causes.
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Is Gabrielle Union's activism a powerful force for change, or just another celebrity using their platform?