Kamala Harris, the Vice President of the United States, spent five crucial years in Montreal, Canada, which significantly impacted her life and shaped her worldview. Her mother, Shyamala Gopalan Harris, a breast cancer researcher, moved Kamala and her younger sister, Maya, to Montreal in the early 1970s when Kamala was just 12.
1. Cultural Diversity and Multilingualism: Living in Montreal, a multicultural and multilingual city, introduced Harris to cultural diversity early in her life. This experience greatly contributed to her understanding and respect for different cultures, races, and religions. Moreover, Harris attended a French-speaking school, Westmount High School, which made her fluent in English and French.
2. Independent Living: Harris’s mother often traveled due to her work. As a result, Harris and her sister often had to rely on themselves, which instilled a sense of responsibility and independence in her from a young age.
3. Inspiration to Fight Injustice: It was during these years that Harris recognized the importance of equal rights and justice, largely inspired by her mother who faced and overcame racial and cultural prejudice as an immigrant.
4. Importance of Education: In Montreal, Harris spent her high school years studying intensively. She has often cited these years as foundational in her understanding of the vital role education plays in shaping personal and career growth.
5. Formation of Political Thought: During her time in Montreal, Harris started framing her political thought. Living in
