The image, taken by The New York Times’ Todd Heisler, has been widely praised for its emotional depth and powerful message, with social media users hailing it as the “photo of the year” and flooding in with responses highlighting its importance.
One Twitter user called it “moving, powerful and just plain amazing,” while another called it “an image of hope for America.” Many commented that the photo will resonate with Amara throughout her life, especially given the profound moment it captures.
“This is a photo for the history books,” one user tweeted, echoing the sentiments of many who see the photo as a symbol of progress and change in the United States.
But the photo has sparked controversy online, with critics calling it “eerie” and “dystopian.” Some critics have compared it to historical imagery with darker overtones, reflecting the polarized reactions that often accompany high-profile political events.
Amara, who was born in June 2016, is already showing signs of following in her great-aunt’s footsteps: In a 2019 interview with Mother magazine, her mother, Meena Harris, said that Amara learned to say phrases like “incredible woman” and “Black power” at an early age, reflecting her family’s deep commitment to justice and empowerment.
Kamala Harris’ sister, Maya Harris, also played a prominent role at the Democratic National Convention, speaking onstage as Amara held up a sign in support of her great-aunt. The Harris family’s involvement in the campaign, especially little Amara, added a personal and emotional dimension to the 2024 election.
