Vice President Kamala Harris has an exceptional support system comprising her family members, each playing a crucial role in her path to success. Kamala has often shared glimpses of her close-knit family on social media, from her accomplished sister, Maya, to her husband, Douglas Emhoff.

Biracial Background

Kamala Harris's biracial identity stems from her parents, Shyamala Gopalan and Donald Harris, who immigrated to the U.S. to further their education. Harris has frequently expressed her gratitude for their involvement in the civil rights movement, significantly influencing her journey to becoming the first Black female vice president.

PHOTO | COURTESY Kamala Harris family together with Indian grandfather

A Dynamic Duo

Though they eventually divorced, Harris's parents were both remarkably accomplished. Shyamala made significant strides as a cancer researcher, while Donald became a respected economics professor at Stanford University.

How Kamala's Parent Met

Shyamala and Donald's love story began in Berkeley, California, where they were both pursuing higher education. Their shared involvement in the civil rights movement instilled a deep sense of activism in their daughter from an early age.


Cultural Richness

As a Jamaican immigrant, Donald Harris ensured that his daughters were connected to their heritage by taking them on visits to Jamaica. His efforts to share his roots with his children helped nurture Kamala's adventurous spirit and curiosity.

Impactful Work

Shyamala's legacy as a trailblazing breast cancer researcher profoundly influenced Kamala's upbringing. Her groundbreaking contributions to hormone and breast cancer research continue to inspire Harris in her advocacy for healthcare.


Empowering Women

Raised by a lineage of strong women, Kamala credits her resilience and sense of civic duty to her mother's deliberate efforts to instill pride in their cultural heritage and the importance of fighting for equality.

A Lasting Legacy

Shyamala's passing in 2009 was a significant loss for the Harris family, but Kamala continues to carry her mother's teachings and values with her. She honors the profound impact her mother had on shaping her into the leader she is today. As she steps into her role as vice president, Kamala Harris acknowledges her mother's influence, emphasizing the importance of addressing the nation's challenges with compassion and empathy.