The internet is abuzz once again with the famous ‘coconut tree’ meme as Kamala Harris launches her bid for the 2024 presidency. Social media platforms are flooded with coconut emojis and images of people climbing coconut trees, all in reference to a phrase Harris used in a 2023 speech.
The meme originated from a speech Harris delivered at the swearing-in ceremony of commissioners for the President’s Advisory Commission on Advancing Educational Equity, Excellence, and Economic Opportunity for Hispanics. She remarked, “My mother used to — she would give us a hard time sometimes, and she would say to us, ‘I don’t know what’s wrong with you young people. You think you just fell out of a coconut tree?’ You exist in the context of all in which you live and what came before you.”
This seemingly innocuous phrase has taken on a life of its own, becoming a viral meme that has resurfaced now that Harris has secured the Democratic nomination for president. While the meme is being used by supporters of Harris, it has also sparked controversy.
Cybersecurity lawyer Isvari Maranwe, in a TikTok video, highlighted that the term “coconut,” which has become associated with Harris, has been used in a discriminatory manner against Indian Americans. This raises concerns about the potential for the meme to perpetuate harmful stereotypes.
While Harris has not yet commented on the meme, it serves as a reminder of the complex nature of online humor and the potential for unintended consequences when certain phrases or images go viral.
As Harris begins her campaign for the White House, it remains to be seen how this meme will be received by the public and whether it will have a lasting impact on her political journey.
With endorsements from former speaker Nancy Pelosi, US President Joe Biden, and other party members, Harris has secured enough Democratic delegates to challenge Republican rival Donald Trump in the upcoming election. The outcome of this race remains uncertain, but it’s clear that the internet will continue to play a significant role in shaping the narrative surrounding the candidates and their campaigns.
