Kamala Harris Secures Her Place in History as First Female Vice President
Vice President Kamala Harris has made history, becoming the first woman, the first Black and the first Asian American to hold the position. Throughout her time in office, she has been captured on camera by photographer Lawrence Jackson, who has had a unique access to her inner workings.
As a veteran news photographer, Jackson has been covering Harris for nearly five years, starting with the Biden-Harris campaign and then as her official White House photographer. He is one of the only photographers to have captured the intimate moments of Harris’ time in the White House.
“I feel very lucky to be covering the first female vice president,” Jackson said. “I know there are a lot of photographers out there who would see me on the side of the road and run me over just to possibly get a chance to do what I do.”
Jackson’s photos are not only part of the historical record, but they were also used by the White House team to help shape how the world sees Harris. When she became the Democratic nominee, her image was used to help influence public perception.
As Harris leaves office, Jackson reflects on the access he had to her, saying, “I still pinch myself at the access that I get because, obviously, they put their trust in me to take pictures and tell stories.” He believes it’s a huge honor and privilege to be capturing her legacy in history.
Harris’ historic status is a testament to the progress made by women and marginalized communities. Throughout her time in office, she has been supported by her staff, family, and friends, but ultimately, the responsibility of her role falls on her shoulders.
As she leaves office, Harris’ legacy will be cemented in the history books, thanks in part to Jackson’s photographs. He has captured moments that will be remembered for generations to come, including her meetings with world leaders, her speeches, and her quiet moments with family and friends.
Harris’ story is one of firsts, from becoming the first Black and South Asian American woman to run on a major political party’s presidential ticket to being the first woman to serve as vice president. Jackson’s photos have captured her humanity, her compassion, and her strength, ensuring that her legacy will be remembered for generations to come.