Shyamala Gopalan, a trailblazing scientist, made history by pursuing her dream of studying at the University of California, Berkeley at just 19 years old. Her journey not only paved the way for her own groundbreaking work but also served as a profound inspiration to her daughter, Vice President Kamala Harris.
In the late 1950s, Gopalan was among the first waves of Indian immigrants to the United States. During a recent event, Harris shared insights about her mother’s determination, stating, “She arrived in the United States by herself because she had a passion and she had a goal.”
Global Impact of Gopalan’s Research
Gopalan dedicated her life to finding a cure for breast cancer, conducting research across multiple countries including France and Canada. Her career also took her family to Wisconsin, where her daughters spent part of their childhood.
In Oakland, California, the long hours Gopalan worked meant her daughters, including Kamala and her sister Maya, often spent time with their neighbor Regina Shelton, who ran a daycare. Harris regards Shelton as a maternal figure, famously using her Bible during her vice presidential swearing-in.
Reflecting on her diverse upbringing, Harris acknowledged the cultural influences from both sides of her family, noting that while her father, Donald Harris, immigrated from Jamaica, her mother raised her daughters in a way that prepared them for their identities as Black women in America.
Supportive Presence on the Campaign Trail
During Harris’ initial campaign for district attorney in San Francisco, Gopalan was an unwavering supporter, attending campaign headquarters every weekend to assist with various tasks, as shared by friends and former colleagues.
Describing her mother’s dedication, Rothschild, a close friend, emphasized Gopalan’s sense of justice and her tireless support, saying, “She’d be the first person to call and say, ‘Are you okay?’”
Harris began her campaign with only 8% in the polls but frequently highlighted her mother’s influence in her speeches, adding a personal touch to her message.
A Legacy of Resilience
Tragically, Gopalan passed away from colon cancer in 2009 while Harris was campaigning for the California Attorney General position. Years later, as a presidential candidate, Harris spoke candidly about her experiences navigating the healthcare system alongside her mother during her chemotherapy treatments.
In those difficult moments, friends such as Rothschild spent time with Gopalan in the hospital, where she maintained her characteristic sense of humor, even in the face of adversity. Rothschild recalled, “She had a great sense of humor, even in her pain.”
Continuing Her Mother’s Legacy
Since becoming vice president, Harris has continued to share her mother’s wisdom, emphasizing the importance of legacy and representation. One of her most quoted pieces of advice from Gopalan resonates strongly: “Kamala, you may be the first to do many things, but make sure you’re not the last.”
This sentiment was echoed during a pivotal moment in her career, as she stated, “I may be the first woman to hold this office. But I won’t be the last,” leaving a lasting mark on future generations.
