Kamala Harris

Vice president of the most powerful nation in the world, former senator of California, former attorney general of California, former district attorney of San Francisco and yet until a few months ago when she was announced as the presidential candidate for the democratic party not many knew of her. So, we will answer the newest dinner table question here and now ‘Who is Kamala Harris?’

Born in Oakland California to two migrants- Shyamala Gopalan and Donald Harris- Kamala had no normal childhood. As the daughter of an Indian mother and Jamaican father, she grew up embracing both her Black and South Asian identities. Her mother, Shyamala Gopalan, was deeply involved in the civil rights movement, taking Kamala to protests and instilling in her a sense of justice and equality from a young age. Additionally, when she was seven Kamala's parents divorced, and she was primarily raised by her mother, who emphasized the importance of education and service.

Kamala's childhood also included a move to Montreal, Canada, during her teenage years, which exposed her to a diverse cultural environment. This diverse upbringing, alongside her mother's activism, set her apart from many of her peers and shaped her future career in public service and politics. Kamala’s experiences growing up in a multicultural household, combined with her exposure to both American and Canadian societies, helped her develop a unique perspective on issues related to race, immigration, and social justice. Her mother’s emphasis on hard work and education propelled Kamala toward a career focused on advocating for equality and reform. These formative years not only shaped her values but also influenced her ability to connect with a broad range of communities, contributing to her rise as a politician.

Kamala Harris's school life was a mix of academic excellence and early activism. She was born in Oakland, California, and attended public schools there. Kamala was a bright student with a strong academic record. She attended Howard University, a historically Black university in Washington, D.C., where she earned a degree in political science and economics. Her time at Howard was marked by her involvement in student government and her commitment to civil rights, reflecting her growing interest in social justice and public service. After Howard, she went on to earn her J.D. from the University of California, Hastings College of the Law. During her time in law school, she continued to be active in issues of justice and equality, laying the groundwork for her future career in public service and politics.

Kamala Harris's career is marked by a steadfast commitment to justice and public service. After earning her J.D. from the University of California, Hastings College of the Law, she began her legal career as a deputy district attorney in Alameda County, focusing on serious crimes. She then became the District Attorney of San Francisco in 2003, where she introduced innovative reforms aimed at reducing recidivism and improving the criminal justice system. Her success in this role led to her election as California's Attorney General in 2010, where she continued to break barriers and tackle significant issues like mortgage fraud and environmental protection while advancing criminal justice reform.

Harris's achievements paved the way for her election to the U.S. Senate in 2016, where she gained recognition for her work on healthcare, climate change, and systemic inequality. Her tenure in the Senate was followed by a historic milestone in 2020 when she was elected Vice President of the United States, becoming the first woman, African American, and South Asian American to hold the office. As Vice President, Harris has been actively involved in addressing critical national issues, including the COVID-19 pandemic and economic recovery, reflecting her enduring dedication to public service and reform.

Kamala Harris is often described as assertive, confident, and articulate, qualities that have been evident throughout her career in both law and politics. Her personality is marked by a keen sense of conviction and commitment to social justice, which has driven her work on issues such as criminal justice reform, economic equality, and healthcare. Harris is known for her sharp questioning and thorough preparation, particularly during her time in the U.S. Senate, where she gained a reputation for her incisive and direct approach in hearings.

Her colleagues and supporters often describe her as a resilient and determined leader who is adept at navigating complex political landscapes. Additionally, she is recognized for her ability to connect with a diverse range of people and for her emphasis on building consensus and working collaboratively. Overall, Harris’s personality reflects a blend of strategic acumen, enthusiastic advocacy, and a commitment to public service.