Kamala Harris' Parents: Everything You Need to Know

Meet the People Who Raised the Vice President

Kamala Harris, the first female, first Black, and first Asian American vice president of the United States, was born to parents who immigrated to the United States from India and Jamaica. Her mother, Shyamala Gopalan, was a cancer researcher and civil rights activist, while her father, Donald Harris, was an economics professor.

Shyamala Gopalan: A Trailblazing Scientist and Activist

Shyamala Gopalan was born in Chennai, India, in 1938. She came to the United States in 1960 to pursue a doctorate in nutrition and endocrinology at the University of California, Berkeley. While at Berkeley, she met Donald Harris, and they married in 1963.

Gopalan was a brilliant scientist who made significant contributions to the field of cancer research. She was also a passionate advocate for civil rights and social justice. She worked with organizations such as the NAACP and the Southern Christian Leadership Conference to fight for equality and justice for all.

Donald Harris: A Renowned Economist and Educator

Donald Harris was born in Kingston, Jamaica, in 1938. He came to the United States in 1961 to pursue a doctorate in economics at Stanford University. After graduating from Stanford, he taught economics at the University of Wisconsin-Madison, Howard University, and Stanford University.

Harris is a renowned economist who has published extensively on topics such as economic development, poverty, and inequality. He has also served as a consultant to the World Bank and the United Nations.

The Influence of Kamala Harris' Parents

Kamala Harris has often credited her parents with instilling in her a strong work ethic, a commitment to social justice, and a belief in the power of education. She has said that her mother taught her the importance of fighting for what she believes in, while her father taught her the value of critical thinking and intellectual curiosity.

The influence of Kamala Harris' parents is evident in her own career. As a prosecutor, attorney general, and senator, she has fought for justice and equality for all. She has also been a strong advocate for education and economic opportunity.