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As the first Asian American and Black woman to run as a U.S. vice president, Kamala Harris has broken barriers and made history. Her journey in politics began at a young age, showcasing her passion for advocacy and change. Currently serving as one of California’s senators alongside Dianne Feinstein, Harris has now set her sights on the vice presidency of the United States. Let’s delve into 40 fascinating facts about Kamala Harris that you need to know.
Getting to Know Kamala Harris
- Born on October 20, 1964, in Oakland, California, Kamala Harris is the Democratic vice presidential nominee for the 2020 elections.
- A lawyer and American politician, Kamala Harris is of African-Asian-American descent, with a Jamaican father, Donald Harris, and an Indian mother, Shyamala Gopalan Harris.
- Kamala Harris studied at Howard University and the University of California, Hastings College of Law, kickstarting her career in the Alameda County California District Attorney’s Office.
- She was elected district attorney of San Francisco in 2013, marking the beginning of a remarkable political journey.
- If Kamala Harris emerges victorious in the 2020 elections, she will become the 49th vice president of the United States, a monumental achievement in American history.
Family Ties and Personal Life
- Kamala Harris tied the knot with lawyer Douglas Emhoff on August 22, 2014, in Santa Barbara, California.
- Her husband, Douglas Emhoff, has Jewish parents and hails from New York, bringing a blend of cultures into their family.
- Ella Emhoff, born in 1999 to Douglas Emhoff and Kerstin Mackin, is Kamala’s stepdaughter, known for her talents as a painter and clothing designer.
- Cole Emhoff, the son of Douglas Emhoff and Kerstin Mackin, was born in 1995, and both stepchildren affectionately refer to Kamala Harris as “Momala.”
- Kamala Harris draws strength and inspiration from her family, showcasing a harmonious and loving dynamic within her personal life.
Early Influences and Background
- Exposed to the civil rights movement at a young age, Kamala Harris’s parents instilled in her a passion for social justice and activism, shaping her future endeavors.
- Shyamala Gopalan, Kamala’s mother, migrated to the United States from India at the age of 19, pursuing a career in biomedical science and making significant contributions to cancer research.
- Donald J. Harris, Kamala’s father, moved to the United States at 25 years old, later becoming a renowned Jamaican-American economist and professor emeritus at Stanford University.
- Kamala Harris’s name, meaning “lotus” in Indian, was chosen by her mother, symbolizing purity, success, and piety.
- Despite her parents’ divorce when she was seven years old, Kamala Harris was raised by her mother, who played a pivotal role in shaping her character and values.
Political Career and Achievements
- Kamala Harris serves on various Senate committees, including Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs, Judiciary, Intelligence, and Budget, dedicating her life to fighting against injustices.
- Elected as one of California’s senators in 2017, Kamala Harris made history as the first South Asian American and second African American woman to hold this position.
- Harris emerged victorious in the 2016 Senate election, defeating Loretta Sanchez and solidifying her place as a formidable political force.
- Joe Biden selected Kamala Harris as his vice presidential running mate on August 11, 2020, marking a historic moment in American politics.
- Initially aiming for the 2020 Democratic presidential nomination, Kamala Harris garnered support but later withdrew due to fundraising challenges, ultimately joining forces with Joe Biden.
Personal Insights and Trivia
- Standing at 5 feet 2 inches tall, Kamala Harris brings a strong presence and formidable demeanor to her political endeavors.
- Kamala Harris’s Wikipedia page underwent over 400 edits in a single month, reflecting the intense scrutiny and interest surrounding her political career.
- Known for her independence and determination, Kamala Harris famously stated, “I have my own legacy,” rejecting comparisons to other political figures.
- A lover of literature, Kamala Harris enjoys reading novels such as “The Kite Runner,” “The Joy Luck Club,” and “Native Son,” showcasing her diverse interests.
- Kamala Harris’s culinary skills shine through as she finds solace in cooking healthy and delicious meals, a reflection of her mother’s influence and guidance.
With a blend of personal anecdotes, political achievements, and intriguing trivia, Kamala Harris emerges as a multifaceted figure poised to make a lasting impact on American history. From her early upbringing to her groundbreaking political career, Kamala Harris continues to inspire and pave the way for future leaders in the realm of politics and beyond.
