Kamala Harris's Father: Donald Harris

Early life and career

Donald Harris was born in Jamaica in 1938. He studied economics at the University of the West Indies and then moved to the United States to pursue a PhD in economics at the University of California, Berkeley. After completing his doctorate, Harris worked as an economist for the World Bank and then as a professor at Stanford University.

Political career

In 1972, Harris was elected to the California State Assembly, where he served for two terms. In 1978, he was elected to the California State Senate, where he served for four terms. In 1994, Harris was elected Attorney General of California, a position he held for two terms.

Personal life

Harris married Shyamala Gopalan, an Indian-American cancer researcher, in 1963. They had two daughters, Kamala and Maya. Harris and Gopalan divorced in 1972. Harris died of colon cancer in 2015.

Legacy

Harris is remembered as a brilliant economist and a dedicated public servant. He was a pioneer for African Americans in politics and a role model for many. His daughter, Kamala Harris, is the first African American woman to be elected Vice President of the United States.

Kamala Harris's relationship with her father

Kamala Harris has said that her father was a major influence on her life. She has described him as a brilliant man who was always pushing her to achieve her goals. Harris has also said that her father was a strong believer in social justice and that he taught her the importance of fighting for what you believe in.

Harris's father's influence on her political career

Harris has said that her father's involvement in politics inspired her to pursue a career in public service. She has also said that her father's belief in social justice has influenced her policy positions on issues such as criminal justice reform and healthcare.

Harris's father's death

Harris's father died of colon cancer in 2015. Harris has said that her father's death was a devastating loss, but that she is grateful for the time she had with him. She has also said that her father's legacy will continue to inspire her work.

Conclusion

Donald Harris was a brilliant economist and a dedicated public servant. He was a pioneer for African Americans in politics and a role model for many. His daughter, Kamala Harris, is the first African American woman to be elected Vice President of the United States. Harris's father had a major influence on her life and her political career. His belief in social justice and his commitment to public service continue to inspire her work.