Fast Facts for Families About Our VP

Kamala Harris: Fast Facts for Families About Our VP

Breaking political news in America has taken over the news cycle this week. Families across the country witnessed history when President and former 2024 Democratic nominee Joe Biden dropped out of the race, passing the torch to Vice President Kamala Harris. She’s since captured the internet’s attention, which means our kids are likely curious, and maybe even asking their parents and teachers: Who is Kamala Harris?

If you notice that your kids are curious about everything that’s going on lately and are especially curious about who Vice President Kamala Harris is, we’d like to tell you more about her political career and everything you need to know about our Vice President. Regardless of your own political beliefs, it is important to know about the presidential candidates. It helps voters make the right decision for themselves and their families.

We’re also sharing some children’s books that are a great way to introduce young people to the Democratic candidate likely to be nominated in 2024.

Psst…. Check this out How to Talk to Kids About Politics

Early life of Kamala Harris

• Kamala Harris was born on October 20, 1964, in Oakland, California.
• Her father was born in Jamaica and her mother in India.
• After her parents divorced, Harris and her younger sister Maya were raised by their mother, Shyamala Gopalan Harris.
• Harris’ early experiences, when her parents participated in the civil rights movement, inspired her to follow her current career path.
• Harris attended Howard University in Washington, D.C. and later received her law degree from the University of California Hastings College of the Law in San Francisco.
• She began her career in the Alameda County District Attorney’s Office and was elected District Attorney for the City and County of San Francisco in 2003.

Kamala Harris’ Political Career

• In 2010, Kamala Harris became Attorney General of California, the first African-American woman to be elected to the position.
• During her time as attorney general, she married fellow attorney Doug Emhoff and took on the role of stepmother to his two children.
• In 2016, Harris was elected Senator from California, making history in the U.S. as the second African-American woman and the first South Asian American to serve in the Senate.
• Although Harris did not win the Democratic primary, she was chosen as President Joseph R. Biden’s running mate. This made her the fourth woman to run for national office of a major party and the second African American to run for president.
• On January 20, 2021, Harris was sworn in as the nation’s first female, Black, South Asian vice president.

Books we recommend

Some of our favorite books teach our little ones about important figures that are always present in history. Although Kamala Harris did not win this presidential election, she is currently our Vice President, has accomplished some major milestones, and has established herself as a figure in history. Our children will definitely continue to read about her for years to come.

Below are some books that can help introduce our children to the Vice President, including two books written by Vice President Harris.

Kamala Harris (Little People, Big Dreams)

This children’s book chronicles the life of Kamala Harris, the first woman, first Black person, and first South Asian American to be elected Vice President of the United States. It highlights her early experiences, aspirations, and journey to becoming a leader. The book also features some great illustrations and includes additional facts, such as a biographical timeline with historical photos and a detailed profile of Kamala Harris’ life and accomplishments.

Kamala Harris: Rooted in Justice, available from The Smithsonian

Kamala Harris: Rooted in Justice is a book about Kamala Harris that highlights how she used her voice to stand up for her beliefs and for those whose voices were not heard. It focuses on her fight against injustice, something that has been discussed throughout her career.

Superheroes Are Everywhere by Kamala Harris

Superheroes are everywhere is a #1 New York Times bestseller written by Vice President Kamala Harris. This inspiring picture book conveys the message that everyone has the potential to be a superhero. Kamala Harris shares her experiences to show that the power to influence the world is within each of us. Mechal Renee Roe is the illustrator of this book and it includes a guide to being a superhero.

The Truths We Cherish: An American Journey

Released in 2019, The Truths We Cherish: An American Journey is Kamala Harris’ memoir that has been on the rise since news broke that she was the new potential Democratic nominee. Her book delves into her experiences growing up in a community committed to social justice and grappling with complex issues as a political leader.

Our families will likely hear a lot about the presidential election and our candidates for the rest of the election season. All we can do is stay informed, share information, and make sure we get out to the polls and vote so our voices are heard.