FLASHBACK: Kamala Harris Scolds Americans for Saying ‘Merry Christmas’

In a controversial move that sparked outrage among conservatives, then-Senator Kamala Harris vehemently condemned Americans for daring to wish each other “Merry Christmas” before securing permanent legal status for certain undocumented immigrants. This incident occurred in the midst of a heated political battle over the protections granted to individuals who had entered the country illegally as minors, known as the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) program.

The DACA Debate and Harris’ Scathing Remarks

The backdrop to Harris’ incendiary comments was the Trump administration’s decision to end the DACA program, which had shielded some undocumented immigrants who came to the U.S. as children from deportation. In response, Harris and other Democratic leaders rallied to push for the passage of the Dream Act, a legislative proposal that would provide a pathway to citizenship for this specific group of immigrants.

Harris’ Controversial Christmas Condemnation

At a press conference in December 2017, Harris took the stage and delivered a scathing rebuke to Americans who dared to celebrate the holiday season. “And when we all sing happy tunes, and sing Merry Christmas, and wish each other Merry Christmas, these children are not going to have a Merry Christmas. How dare we speak Merry Christmas. How dare we?” the then-senator thundered, her voice dripping with indignation.

Harris argued that it was “morally wrong” to take away the existing protections for those shielded by the Obama-era DACA program, portraying the undocumented immigrants as victims who would be denied the joy of the holiday season. She insisted that Congress must act swiftly to provide a permanent solution for these individuals, warning that thousands had already lost their protected status.

Unearthed clip of Kamala Harris scolds people for saying “Merry Christmas” because illegals might not get to celebrate: “HOW DARE WE SPEAK MERRY CHRISTMAS?” pic.twitter.com/zBq6hDX9l3

— TheBlaze (@theblaze) August 1, 2024

Beyond the DACA issue, Harris has consistently advocated for a broader pathway to citizenship for a range of undocumented immigrants, including not only those who came to the U.S. as children but also farm workers, Temporary Protected Status recipients, and others. This stance has been a key part of her policy platform, both during her presidential campaign and as Vice President.

The Biden Administration’s Immigration Reform Efforts

True to Harris’ calls, the Biden administration introduced a sweeping immigration reform bill on its first day in office, which included a pathway to citizenship for millions of illegal immigrants. However, this proposal has faced significant resistance from Republicans, particularly in the face of the ongoing crisis at the southern border.

Harris’ involvement in border-related issues has also drawn heavy criticism. Trump has accused Harris of presiding over a “willful demolition of American borders and laws,” leading to a surge in illegal immigration and increased crime.

The Harris Campaign’s Pushback

Despite the passage of time, Harris’ scathing remarks about Americans celebrating “Merry Christmas” before securing protections for undocumented immigrants continue to reverberate in the political landscape. Her unapologetic stance and the heated debate it sparked have cemented her reputation as a polarizing figure in the ongoing immigration reform battle.

Harris’ role in the administration’s handling of the border crisis and her continued advocacy for comprehensive immigration reform have only further fueled the controversy surrounding her. The political divide over these issues shows no signs of abating, ensuring that Harris’ legacy will be forever intertwined with the heated debates over immigration policy in the United States.