In her acceptance speech at the Democratic National Convention on Thursday, Vice President Kamala Harris shared a personal story from her past that helped shape her decision to pursue a career as a prosecutor.

Harris noticed that her high school best friend, Wanda, seemed troubled. When she inquired further, Wanda revealed that she was experiencing sexual abuse from her stepfather. Harris recounted how she immediately encouraged Wanda to live with her family, sharing this moment during her speech in Chicago.

“This experience is one of the reasons I chose to become a prosecutor: to safeguard individuals like Wanda, because I believe that everyone deserves to feel safe, have dignity, and receive justice,” Harris declared on stage.

Wanda Kagan, her friend, attended parts of the convention and expressed her emotions on social media, writing, “Words cannot adequately express what I’ve felt during this amazing experience at the DNC, witnessing history alongside my friend!”

Wanda shares her thoughts on Kamala Harris’ historic nomination

In an interview with MSNBC during the convention, Kagan responded to a campaign video showcasing Harris sharing their story.

“It’s deeply moving to hear that story. Every time I hear it, I’m reminded of the moment she saved me,” Kagan reflected, emphasizing Harris’s encouragement for her to pursue her education. “She has a strong protective nature and is determined to fight for the people of America.”

Kagan noted that Harris has always been empathetic and supportive, traits which are evident now, as reported by CBS.

“She’s not just talk; she takes action,” Kagan told CBS News.

Although Kagan never anticipated that her best friend would become the presidential nominee, she admitted she wasn’t shocked.

Harris: ‘The future is always worth fighting for’

Harris formally accepted the Democratic nomination for president on Wednesday, promising to represent all Americans.

Her speech was markedly different from the acceptance address given by her opponent, Donald Trump, at the Republican National Convention the previous month. She labeled Trump an “unserious man” and cautioned that another Trump presidency would have “serious consequences.” She mentioned Trump’s conservative agenda, Project 2025, which he has been trying to distance himself from.

During her speech, Harris spoke about her working-class background and her early career in law, urging Americans to let her advocate for them just as she has for the residents of California.

“These struggles were tough, and so were the elections that led me to those roles,” Harris stated. “We faced underestimation at nearly every step, but we never lost hope, because the future is always something worth striving for.”