Longshot Independent presidential hopeful Cornel West announced Wednesday he has chosen Melina Abdullah — a founding member and leading voice with Black Lives Matter Los Angeles — as his vice presidential running mate.
“Sister Melina’s incredible courage, keen intellect, and deep vision have greatly served the cause of liberation in education, worker rights, and both racial and gender justice,” West said in a statement announcing the choice. “Her unique Black analysis and witness helps us confront our crumbling era of empire, white supremacy, and patriarchy. I look forward to working with her as we strengthen our commitment in our campaign for truth, justice and love.”
Abdullah is a professor of Pan-African Studies at Cal State Los Angeles.
“I am deeply honored and humbled to join Dr. Cornel West as his vice presidential candidate at this critical moment as we work together for transformative change,” Abdullah said in a statement. “This campaign offers a real vision for the world that stands in opposition to oppressive forces and holds fast to the universal principles of truth, justice, and love.”
West, a philosopher and academic, initially launched his campaign as a Democrat, then switched to the Green Party before finally landing as an Independent. He appeared on the Tavis Smiley radio show in Los Angeles Wednesday morning to make his VP announcement, which was required for him to qualify for the ballot in some states.
West has already qualified for the ballot in several states, including South Carolina, Alaska and Oregon, according to his campaign.