GREENVILLE, N.C.—Vice President Harris attended Sunday services and spoke about hurricane misinformation and the Bible's teachings on helping others, appealing to black voters.
“At a young age, I learned that faith is a verb; it is something we demonstrate in our actions and service,” Harris told the packed church.
Harris was introduced by Bishop Rosie S. O'Neill during the service at Koinonia Christian Center.
“We are thinking of all those affected by these storms…We know that the people of Greenville, like all Americans, are inspired by the ways our community comes together.” I know,” the vice president said.
She alluded, without mentioning, to former President Trump, who spread misinformation about Hurricanes Helen and Milton and the federal government's response to them.
“I believe that in moments of crisis, the heroes and angels within us are revealed and all of the best of us is shown. And these hurricanes bring heroes and angels all around us. ,” she said. Heroes who don't ask injured or stranded people if they're Republican or Democrat, just ask, “Are you okay?” ”
But Harris noted that not everyone is “acting in the spirit of community.”
“And I'm talking about people who literally don't tell the truth, lie, and spread disinformation when we need truth and facts.” ,” she added.
When she spoke about the impact of disinformation, some admirers nodded in agreement. Hurricane Helen hit western North Carolina, across the Tar Heel State from Greenville.
“The problem is… people who are made to believe that they can't be trusted make it harder to get life-saving information. And that's all the pain, because people in need know that they “They are somehow made to believe that the military is working to prevent them from asking for help,” she said.
Harris admonished those who are trying to use this moment to turn “tragedy and sadness” into “grievance and hatred.”
“And some people may wonder why that is. And I think, sadly, their motives are very clear: to benefit themselves, and to hurt others' feelings.” It's unconscionable to play politics for the sake of others,” Harris said.
She argued that leaders do not play politics in times of crisis.
“Now is the time to live up to the core values that reflect our country at its best. Values of compassion and community, integrity and civility. These are the values that define the people of Greenville, the people of North Carolina.” she said.
She also referenced multiple Bible verses in her remarks, quoting the Book of Isaiah and acknowledging that those helping with hurricane cleanup have become a “shelter for the distressed poor.” Ta.
Harris cites Paul's letter to the churches in Galatians, saying he “reminds them and us that God calls us not to grow weary in doing good.” ” he said. Because we each have power, God has taught us that each of us is a force for change. ”
As she finished speaking, attendees stood up and began to cheer and wave at her.
“Always remember that weeping may last a night, but joy will come in the morning,” she said, rallying people to their feet.
When Harris wasn't giving a speech, she sat in the front row and participated in the service, clapping and singing. She sat next to Mr. O'Neill, who gave the vice president a warm welcome, saying, “I know there are people who vote all sorts of ways…but we have a sitting vice president.” he said.
The vice president visited Raleigh on Saturday and met with Black elected officials, faith and community leaders at a local barbecue restaurant. She is scheduled to speak in Greenville later Sunday.
Harris has visited the state several times while running for president.
Her campaign has focused in recent days on appealing to black voters. Former President Barack Obama called on black men to come forward for Harris in November when he went searching for her in Pennsylvania last week. But his comments have come under fire, with some saying they belittle black men and send a “terrible” message.
Trump leads Harris by 0.7 points in North Carolina, according to a tally by Decision Desk Headquarters/The Hill.
