Kamala Harris is an American politician and lawyer who made history in 2021 as the first woman, first Black person, and first Asian American to serve as Vice President of the United States. Before becoming Vice President, Harris had a long career in public service.
Born on October 20, 1964, in Oakland, California, Harris grew up in a family that was actively involved in the civil rights movement. Her mother, Shyamala Gopalan, was a cancer researcher and civil rights activist, and her father, Donald Harris, was an economist from Jamaica. Harris attended Howard University, a historically black college in Washington, D.C., where she majored in political science and economics.
After graduating from law school at the University of California, Hastings, Harris began her career as a prosecutor in the Alameda County District Attorney's Office. In 2003, she was elected District Attorney of San Francisco, becoming the first woman and first African American to hold that position. As District Attorney, she was known for her innovative approach to criminal justice, including creating a program to provide first-time drug offenders with job training and education.
In 2010, Harris was elected Attorney General of California, becoming the first woman and first African American to hold that position as well. During her tenure, she fought for criminal justice reform, environmental protection, and consumer rights. In 2016, she was elected to the United States Senate, becoming the second African American woman and the first South Asian American to serve in the Senate.
In 2020, Harris was chosen as the running mate of Joe Biden, the Democratic nominee for President of the United States. Together, they won the election, with Harris making history as the first woman and first person of color to serve as Vice President.
Throughout her career, Harris has been a vocal advocate for progressive causes, including criminal justice reform, immigration reform, and universal healthcare. She has also been a strong supporter of women's rights, LGBTQ+ rights, and racial justice. Her groundbreaking election as Vice President is seen as a milestone for representation and diversity in American politics.