A Look Back At The Early Years Of A Political Trailblazer

Kamala Harris: From Howard University to the White House

A Look Back at the Early Years of a Political Trailblazer

From Oakland to the Ivy League

Kamala Devi Harris was born in Oakland, California, on October 20, 1964. Her mother, Shyamala Gopalan, was a Tamil Indian biologist whose work on breast cancer research helped earn her international acclaim. Her father, Donald Harris, was a Jamaican-born economist. Harris's parents met while studying at the University of California, Berkeley, and divorced when she was seven years old.

Harris attended Howard University, a historically Black university in Washington, D.C., where she majored in political science and economics. She was active in student government and became involved in the civil rights movement. After graduating from Howard, Harris went on to earn a law degree from the University of California, Hastings College of the Law.

A Rising Political Star

Harris began her legal career as a deputy district attorney in Alameda County, California. She quickly rose through the ranks and was elected district attorney in 2003. As district attorney, Harris launched a number of initiatives aimed at reducing crime and recidivism. She also made history as the first woman and the first African American to hold the position.

In 2010, Harris was elected attorney general of California. She was the first woman and the first African American to hold this position as well. As attorney general, Harris focused on consumer protection, environmental enforcement, and criminal justice reform.

Harris's work as attorney general earned her national attention and made her a rising star in the Democratic Party. In 2016, she was elected to the United States Senate, becoming the second African American woman to serve in the Senate.

A History-Making Vice President

In 2020, Harris made history once again when she was elected vice president of the United States, becoming the first woman and the first African American to hold this office.

As vice president, Harris has been outspoken on a number of issues, including criminal justice reform, climate change, and the COVID-19 pandemic. She has also been a vocal advocate for women and families.

Kamala Harris is a trailblazing politician who has broken down barriers and made history throughout her career. She is a role model for young women and girls everywhere, and she is an inspiration for all who believe in the power of change.