Kamala Harris's $900 Million Initiative

In a groundbreaking move, US Vice President Kamala Harris is set to announce a $900 million initiative aimed at propelling women into key sectors such as clean energy, fisheries, and environmental conservation on a global scale. This initiative, known as the Women in the Sustainable Economy Initiative (WISE), will receive pledges from governments, companies, and civil society organizations, marking a significant step towards fostering gender equality in environmentally friendly industries.

The announcement is scheduled to take place during the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) summit hosted by the United States in San Francisco. The White House revealed that countries including Australia, Canada, Japan, and Mexico, alongside major corporations such as Amazon, Citi, and PepsiCo, have committed substantial amounts to support women in securing jobs, training, and funding within the sustainable economy.

Canada, for instance, has pledged $12.52 million through 2025 to support women-owned and operated enterprises in Ghana. Additionally, Amazon has committed a noteworthy $50 million investment specifically for “climate tech” companies led by women, showcasing a commitment to advancing women’s leadership in environmentally conscious sectors.

The White House emphasized the intrinsic link between women’s economic opportunities and their control over resources like land, energy, and water. By championing women’s roles and leadership in these critical sectors, the initiative aims not only to enhance women’s economic security but also to contribute to addressing the root causes and effects of climate change while bolstering overall economic prosperity.

This move aligns with Vice President Harris’s broader focus on women’s issues, particularly in light of the upcoming 2024 presidential election. With a keen eye on voter concerns over abortion rights, Harris has emerged as a prominent advocate within the Biden administration following the Supreme Court’s 2022 decision to strike down Roe vs. Wade, a landmark case that had previously safeguarded these rights.

As the global community grapples with the urgent need for sustainable practices, Harris’s WISE initiative stands out as a beacon of support, rallying nations and corporations to empower women in pivotal roles for the benefit of the planet’s future.

Re-reported from the article originally published in The Hindustan Times