Examining the Citizenship Status of Kamala Harris’ Parents- A Closer Look at the First Vice President’s Heritage

Were Kamala Harris’ parents US citizens?

Kamala Harris, the current Vice President of the United States, has often been the subject of various discussions and inquiries regarding her background and heritage. One common question that arises is whether her parents were US citizens at the time of her birth. This article aims to delve into this topic and provide an insightful analysis of Kamala Harris’ family history.

Background of Kamala Harris

Kamala Devi Harris was born on October 20, 1964, in Oakland, California. She is the daughter of Shyamala Gopalan and Donald Harris. Her mother, Shyamala, was born in India and immigrated to the United States in her teens, while her father, Donald, was born in Jamaica and also moved to the United States. Kamala’s parents met while studying at the University of California, Berkeley.

Shyamala Gopalan: An Immigrant Mother

Shyamala Gopalan, Kamala Harris’ mother, arrived in the United States in 1960, at the age of 18. She was a strong advocate for women’s rights and public health. Shyamala pursued her education in the United States and earned a Master’s degree in Political Science from the University of California, Berkeley. During her time in the United States, she became a citizen in 1966, which means that Kamala Harris’ mother was indeed a US citizen at the time of her birth.

Donald Harris: An Immigrant Father

Donald Harris, Kamala Harris’ father, was born in Jamaica and moved to the United States in 1961. He earned a Ph.D. in Economics from the University of California, Berkeley. Donald became a naturalized citizen of the United States in 1970, which means that he was not a US citizen at the time of Kamala Harris’ birth.

Conclusion

In conclusion, while Kamala Harris’ father was not a US citizen at the time of her birth, her mother, Shyamala Gopalan, was a US citizen. This highlights the diverse and multicultural background that has shaped Kamala Harris’ life and contributed to her journey to becoming the first female Vice President of the United States. Her family’s immigrant story serves as an inspiration to many, emphasizing the importance of education, hard work, and the American dream.