Kamala Harris: A Trailblazing Career in Law and Politics
Early Life and Education
Kamala Devi Harris was born on October 20, 1964, in Oakland, California. Her father, Donald Harris, was a Jamaican economist, and her mother, Shyamala Gopalan Harris, was an Indian-American cancer researcher. Harris's parents met as graduate students at the University of California, Berkeley.
Harris grew up in a politically active household. Her parents were involved in the civil rights movement, and Harris herself attended protests and rallies from a young age. She attended Howard University, where she earned a bachelor's degree in political science and economics. She then went on to earn a law degree from the University of California, Hastings College of the Law.
Legal and Political Career
After graduating from law school, Harris began her career as a deputy district attorney in Alameda County, California. In 2003, she was elected district attorney of San Francisco, becoming the first woman and the first African American to hold that position. As district attorney, Harris focused on reforming the criminal justice system, implementing programs to reduce recidivism and provide alternatives to incarceration for first-time offenders.
In 2010, Harris was elected Attorney General of California, becoming the first woman and the first African American to hold that position. As Attorney General, Harris continued her work on criminal justice reform, but also expanded her focus to include environmental protection and consumer rights.
In 2016, Harris was elected to the United States Senate, becoming the second African American woman to serve in the Senate. In the Senate, Harris has been a vocal advocate for progressive causes, including healthcare reform, gun control, and immigration reform.
Personal Life
Harris is married to Douglas Emhoff, a lawyer. They have two children, Cole and Ella Emhoff. Harris is a member of the Alpha Kappa Alpha sorority.
Kamala Harris Timeline
- 1964: Born in Oakland, California
- 1986: Earns a bachelor's degree from Howard University
- 1989: Earns a law degree from the University of California, Hastings College of the Law
- 1990-1998: Works as a deputy district attorney in Alameda County, California
- 2003-2011: District Attorney of San Francisco
- 2011-2017: Attorney General of California
- 2017-Present: United States Senator
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