PHILADELPHIA, PENNSYLVANIA - JULY 13: Vice President Kamala Harris speaks during a campaign event at the Asian and Pacific Islander American Vote Presidential Town Hall at the Pennsylvania Convention Center on July 13, 2024 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. Harris continues campaigning ahead of the presidential election as Democrats face doubts about President Biden's fitness in his run for re-election against former President Donald Trump. (Photo by Drew Hallowell/Getty Images)
Kamala Harris Advocates for USMNT Growth in Women’s Football
In a groundbreaking initiative aimed at bolstering the growth of women’s football in the United States, Vice President Kamala Harris addressed the media today, highlighting her commitment to supporting the U.S. Women’s National Team (USWNT) and the future of women’s soccer. Speaking at a press conference held at the U.S. Soccer headquarters in Chicago, Harris emphasized the importance of equal investment and resources for women athletes.
“Women’s football is not just a game; it’s a powerful platform for empowerment, equality, and inspiration,” Harris stated. “We must ensure that our young girls have the same opportunities and support as their male counterparts.” Her comments come in the wake of the USWNT’s historic successes, including multiple World Cup titles, which have not only raised the profile of women’s sports but also brought attention to ongoing issues of pay disparity and support.
Harris unveiled a new federal initiative aimed at promoting women’s sports at all levels, from youth programs to professional leagues. This initiative includes increased funding for local soccer programs, scholarships for female athletes, and partnerships with educational institutions to develop female coaching and leadership roles. “We want to create a pipeline that encourages girls to play, compete, and eventually lead,” she added.
The Vice President’s remarks resonated deeply with advocates of gender equality in sports, who have long called for systemic changes. Harris also noted the importance of community engagement and inclusivity in sports, urging local organizations to create more accessible pathways for young women to enter the game.
As the U.S. Men’s National Team (USMNT) gears up for upcoming tournaments, Harris stressed the need for collaboration between the men’s and women’s programs, fostering a united front for the growth of soccer in America. “Together, we can ensure that soccer is a sport where every child can dream big and achieve greatness, regardless of gender,” she concluded.
The announcement marks a significant step in the ongoing effort to elevate women’s football in the U.S. and reflects Harris’s broader commitment to gender equity in all aspects of society.
