A Journey of Resilience and Rising Popularity
By: Sheikh Saadi
Background and Early Life
Kamala Harris, born on October 20, 1964, in Oakland, California, is the daughter of immigrants—her mother, Shyamala Gopalan, was a cancer researcher from India, and her father, Donald Harris, an economist from Jamaica. Growing up in a diverse environment, Harris was exposed to both Indian and Jamaican cultures, enriching her understanding of the world. Her mother instilled in her a strong sense of justice and activism, often taking her to civil rights protests. This philosophy has driven Harris throughout her career.
Legal and Political Career
Harris attended Howard University and earned her law degree from the University of California, Hastings College of the Law. She began her career in the Alameda County District Attorney’s Office, quickly making a name for herself. In 2003, Harris was elected District Attorney of San Francisco, becoming the first woman and person of colour to hold the office. Her tenure was marked by criminal justice reforms, reducing recidivism, and addressing racial disparities. In 2010, she was elected California’s Attorney General, tackling issues like the foreclosure crisis, marriage equality, and environmental protection.
Reasons for Increasing Popularity
Harris’ popularity surged during her time in the U.S. Senate, where she was elected in 2016. Her sharp questioning during Senate hearings, particularly during the confirmation hearings of Supreme Court Justice Brett Kavanaugh and Attorney General Jeff Sessions, garnered national attention. Harris’ advocacy for social justice, compelling personal narrative, charismatic presence, and strategic alliances, notably her decision to run alongside Joe Biden, bolstered her national profile.
Fundraising Success
Harris played a significant role in the Biden-Harris campaign’s fundraising efforts. Her appeal to grassroots donors and high-profile endorsements led to record-breaking fundraising. Within 48 hours of her selection as Biden’s running mate, the campaign raised $48 million. In September 2020, the campaign raised $364.5 million, the highest monthly fundraising total in U.S. political history.
Inclusion of Youths and Ideas for the Youth
Harris emphasized the importance of engaging and empowering young people. Her campaign sought to engage young voters through virtual town halls, social media campaigns, and college events. Harris has proposed plans to reduce student debt, increase funding for public colleges, address climate change, and create economic opportunities for youth. Her stance on gun control and safety also resonated with young voters.
Possible Impact on U.S. Domestic and Foreign Policies
If she becomes the next US president, then the following impacts might be seen.
Domestic Policies:
● Criminal Justice Reform: Harris aims to reduce mass incarceration, address racial disparities, and promote police reform.
● Healthcare and Social Issues: She supports expanding healthcare access and addressing social inequities, including bolstering the Affordable Care Act.
● Climate Change: Harris advocates for renewable energy investments, carbon emission reductions, and environmental justice.
Foreign Policies:
● Strengthening Alliances: Harris focuses on rebuilding and strengthening U.S. alliances worldwide.
● Human Rights and Democracy: She supports global human rights and democracy initiatives.
● Asia-Pacific Relations: Harris’ Indian heritage positively impacts U.S. relations with South Asian countries.
Some of her foreign policy stances
Harris supports a two-state solution to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, advocating for Israeli security and Palestinian rights. She emphasizes humanitarian aid to Palestinian territories and encourages diplomatic efforts to restart peace talks.
She has expressed concerns about human rights in India, highlighted the need for a strong U.S.-India partnership, and supported Bangladesh’s efforts in managing the Rohingya refugee crisis and enhancing economic cooperation.
Conclusion
Kamala Harris’ 2020 presidential campaign and subsequent election as Vice President were historic milestones reflecting her resilience, diverse background, and increasing popularity. Her journey from attending civil rights protests as a young girl to becoming Vice President is a testament to perseverance and the power of a compelling personal narrative. Harris continues to inspire future generations, embodying the promise of a more inclusive and just America.