How important is being a representative for the next generation to not feel alienated?
Last week we had our first meeting in the cabinet room. I saw a table of leaders that looked like America and I’m mindful of being part of that. I was the first person to ever sit as a confirmed cabinet member and say that my husband was on the way to the White House to join us, for families that look like ours that means a lot. I know that so many members I’m proud to work with carry that honor of representation on their shoulders. My hope is that it makes it so much easier for the next generation that comes along to know that people like them belong at that table.
If you had to give a speech at an HBCU what would your title be and what three things would you challenge them to do for their country given where we are during this pandemic?
I think I would title it as a call to service, an invitation to be a part of the solution. Everyone can be part of that. If addressing HBCU graduates I would be inviting them to consider careers in transportation which is an area where black professionals are underrepresented, also careers in public service, and to have deep community involvement. In this pandemic there’s also an opportunity for every individual to be a difference-maker by helping to make sure everybody gets the vaccine.
