Gopalan, a prominent breast cancer researcher, died in 2009 at age 70. Despite her absence during Harris’s rise to vice president, her presence continues to be felt, according to a USA Today report. “I think about her all the time,” Harris wrote. “Sometimes I look up and talk to her.”
Born in India in 1938, Gopalan was ahead of her time. At just 19 years old, she defied cultural norms by pursuing a doctorate in nutrition and endocrinology at the University of California, Berkeley. Her decision to move to the United States was bold, especially for a young woman from a conservative Tamil Brahmin community. Gopalan’s determination to excel academically and professionally set a strong example for her daughters.
In a memorable anecdote from her memoir, Harris recounted a conversation she had with her mother during her campaign for California attorney general. Although Gopalan was seriously ill with cancer, she responded to Harris’s concerns with unwavering support. “Mommy, these guys say they’re going to kick my ass,” Harris told her. Gopalan, lying on her side, turned over, smiled and said nothing – knowing her daughter’s fighting spirit would prevail. “She knew who she had raised,” Harris recalled. “She knew her fighting spirit was alive and well in me.”
Gopalan’s legacy of resilience and social justice have profoundly shaped Harris’ worldview. Harris often recalls her mother’s teachings, including the importance of not letting any situation get you down and the importance of mentoring others. Harris also emphasized her mother’s advice on self-determination: “Don’t let anyone tell you who you are. Tell them who you are.”
Shyamala Gopalan’s influence extended beyond her daughters. Earlier this year, Indian American Impact, a voting rights advocacy group, established the Dr. Shyamala Gopalan Harris Award for Allyship and Civil Rights in her honor. “Her legacy reminds us that the immigrant experience is not just about personal achievements. It’s also about public service. It’s about giving back to the community and paving a path for future generations,” said Deepak Raj, co-founder of the organization.
As Harris prepares to run for the Democratic Party’s presidential nomination, she carries her mother’s memory with her. “Kamala brought Shyamala’s ashes,” USA Today quoted Gopalan Balachandran, Harris’ uncle, as saying. “We went to Elliot’s Beach on the Bay of Bengal to bury her ashes.”
Harris’ career is closely linked to her mother’s legacy and continues to inspire many on their journey through American politics.
