Kamala Harris's presidential campaign team has selected the song "Freedom" by Beyoncé, part of her iconic 2016 album "Lemonade," as their anthem. Harris first presented the song in July during a public event at her campaign headquarters in Delaware. Beyoncé authorized Harris to use the song, according to a campaign official who wished to remain anonymous.
The song "Freedom," located in the second part of "Lemonade," includes field recordings by John and Alan Lomax that document religious music and work songs of Black prisoners from 1959 and 1948, respectively. During an event in Houston supporting Harris, Beyoncé declared: "I'm here as a mother." The artist, alongside Kelly Rowland, introduced Harris as the next president of the United States.
"Freedom" features Kendrick Lamar and is a song that addresses the importance of freedom and its struggle. Kinitra D. Brooks, author of "The Lemonade Reader," highlights that the song illustrates that freedom is not something that is easily obtained. Harris used this song at a rally in Houston where the dangerous medical consequences of abortion restrictions in Texas were addressed, directly blaming former President Donald Trump.
During the event, the negative impact of abortion restrictions in Texas was emphasized, which has translated into an increase in infant mortality, congenital defects, and maternal mortality. Beyoncé, in her participation, emphasized the importance of fighting for freedom in all aspects, not just political, to ensure a world with equality and limitless opportunities for future generations.
