DEFYING ODDS
Ms. Kamala Devi Harris, the 49th Vice President of the USA, has not only shattered glass ceilings but also ushered in a new chapter of inclusivity. Her tenure marks a milestone in the USA’s history as she is the first woman, first Black, and first IndianAmerican to serve in this prestigious position. With her unique leadership style, Ms. Harris brings fresh perspectives and meaningful change for shaping the future of US politics besides inspiring generations to come
“SHE DRAWS STRENGTH FROM HER MOTHER & DEEPLY ADMIRES HER AS HER SOURCE OF INSPIRATION”
S. Harris was born on 20th October 1964 in Oakland, California, to immigrant parents–a Jamaican father Donald Harris, and a Tamilian mother Shyamala Gopalan. Ms. Harris’ grew up in a multicultural environment. Following her parents’ separation in the early 1970s, she and her sister Maya were raised by their mother. She instilled in them a deep appreciation for their Indian roots and African American culture and moulded them into confident, proud black women. Ms. Harris’ educational foundation began at Howard University, a renowned historically Black institution known for its vibrant culture. Following her graduation with a dual degree in Political Science and Economics at Howard, she pursued a law degree at the University of California, Hastings. Later, she embarked on her legal career in the Alameda County District Attorney’s Office, where she honed her legal skills and demonstrated a fierce dedication to serving her community. Over the years, Ms. Harris has leveraged her knowledge and wisdom to establish herself as a leading voice for progressive change. With a bold vision for the nation, she has carved a unique path for women in leadership. Her commitment to her convictions speaks volumes of her dedication to bringing about positive change in society.
MANY FIRSTS TO HER CREDIT
Popularly known as the “female Obama”, Ms. Harris has achieved numerous historic milestones. She started her journey as a County District Attorney, followed by a tenure as San Francisco’s District Attorney, thus becoming the first woman and person of African-American descent to hold the position. In 2010, she clinched another milestone by becoming California’s first female attorney general, which paved the way for her historic election as California’s junior US senator in 2017. Furthermore, as the first woman, African-American, Indian-American, and Asian-American to hold the position, she continues to redefine norms and inspire generations with her trailblazing spirit. In 2021, she once again etched her name in history by becoming the first female, first Black, and first Asian-American US Vice President. In her role as the USA’s Vice President, she has brought her trademark tenacity and vision to the forefront of the national stage. For decades, she has worked tirelessly to bridge divides, expand opportunities, and protect fundamental freedoms for all Americans.
HER INSPIRATION
Ms. Harris reveres her late mother as her guiding light. She draws strength and guidance from her and deeply admires and credits her as her source of inspiration. Her mother, who was a prominent cancer researcher and civil rights activist, always advised her to not just sit around and complain about things but to do something. The humble leader reflects on how these words have shaped her During her momentous triumph, she delivered a heartfelt speech, reflecting on the invaluable lessons of wisdom passed down by her mother that had profoundly influenced her journey to political success. Additionally, she finds inspiration in her grandfather, a prominent figure in the fight for Indian independence, and her grandmother, who was a grassroots activist empowering underprivileged women with knowledge of contraception. These familial influences, leadership style, and commitment to effecting positive societal change.
ADVOCATING FOR HUMAN RIGHTS
Ms. Harris, as a stalwart of women’s empowerment and gender equality, made headlines during her visit to Ghana in March 2023 by announcing a funding of over $1 billion for fortifying women’s economic autonomy. Besides offering financial backing to women, she also emphasizes the importance of gender equality as a cornerstone of a successful democracy. The Vice President fervently believes that elevating the economic status of women isn’t just a moral imperative but a strategic necessity for reducing poverty and driving sustainable growth. She has always been ahead of her time by leading the charge on several fronts such as safeguarding women’s reproductive rights, fighting gun violence, and securing clean water and air for all Americans. Additionally, to help families ease childcare expenses, she announced major initiatives to assist more than 100,000 working families across the USA in February 2024. Under the new regulations established by the Biden-Harris Administration, aimed primarily at those enrolled in the Child Care and Development Block Grant program (CCDGB), families will not be obligated to allocate more than 7% of their income toward this cost. A standout achievement during her tenure as Attorney General was the establishment of Open Justice, a first-of-its-kind online platform that facilitates transparency in the criminal justice system. This innovative database sheds light on critical data concerning police custody, such as fatalities and injuries, besides enhancing police accountability.
GARNERING ACCOLADES
Several significant publications have recognized Ms. Harris’ impact and influence. From securing a spot on Forbes’ list of the World’s 100 Most Powerful Women to being honored in Time Magazine’s compilation of the 100 Most Influential People in the World, her achievements have solidified her position as a trailblazer in modern politics.
