On January 20, 2021, Kamala Harris made history by becoming the first female, African American, and Asian American Vice President of the United States. Now, just three and a half years later, she stands on the brink of yet another historic milestone.
Biden’s Support Propels Harris to the Forefront
President Joe Biden’s unexpected announcement on Sunday that he will not run in the 2024 presidential race has catapulted Harris, 59, into the forefront. Biden has offered his “full support and endorsement” for Harris as the Democratic nominee for the November election against former President Donald Trump.
A Historic Nomination
If nominated, Harris will be the first African American woman to lead a major party ticket. This significant development has led many to revisit Harris’ background and career.
Kamala Harris’ Rich Faith Journey
Harris has a rich and diverse faith journey, beginning in her childhood. Her mother would dress her and her sister in their Sunday best for church services at the 23rd Avenue Church of God in Oakland, California, where they sang in the children’s choir. Harris’ mother was Hindu, and her father was Christian, exposing her to both Black Baptist and Hindu religious practices.
Interfaith Family Life
In her personal life, Harris married Doug Emhoff in 2014, becoming stepmother to his two children, Cole and Ella. The couple incorporates Jewish traditions into their home life, reflecting Harris’ commitment to interfaith practices.
Political Career and Faith
Harris’s political career has been marked by her work as a prosecutor and California Attorney General. She has represented California in the U.S. Senate since January 2017. Harris was sworn into the Senate on a family Bible.
Faith as a Moral Compass
Throughout her campaign and tenure, she has been guided by her faith, using it as a moral compass in her political decisions, including her staunch advocacy for women’s reproductive rights. Her faith also influences her stance on social issues, such as her emphasis on defining ‘neighbor’ in broad, inclusive terms during her speeches. Harris’ belief in community and belonging is a core aspect of her spirituality. She draws strength and a sense of purpose from her faith and places high value on living faith through action.
A Journey of Resilience and Dedication
Kamala Harris’ journey from the Senate to the Vice Presidency, and now potentially to the Presidency, is a testament to her resilience and dedication to her beliefs and values.
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