Who Are Kamala Harris' Parents?
Background and Education
Kamala Harris' parents, Dr. Shyamala Gopalan and Donald J. Harris, met while studying at the University of California, Berkeley, in 1962. Gopalan, a biochemist and cancer researcher, immigrated from India in 1958. Harris, an economics professor, came to the United States from Jamaica in 1961.
Kamala's Mother: Dr. Shyamala Gopalan
Dr. Gopalan was born in Chennai, India, and obtained her Ph.D. in nutrition and endocrinology from the University of California, Berkeley. She was a breast cancer researcher at the University of California, San Francisco, and played an influential role in shaping Harris' career.
Kamala's Father: Donald J. Harris
Donald Harris was born in Jamaica and earned his Ph.D. in economics from Stanford University. He was a professor of economics at Stanford and later at the University of Chicago. He is known for his work on the economics of slavery and the civil rights movement.
Influence on Kamala's Life
Harriss parents instilled in her a strong work ethic, the importance of education, and a commitment to social justice. Gopalan's feminist views and struggles as an immigrant shaped Harris' own perspectives on inequality and the need for empowerment. Harris has frequently cited the influence of her parents on her career and personal values.
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