Is Kamala Harris of Indian Heritage? Trump’s Comment Explained

Is Kamala Harris of Indian Heritage? Trump’s Comment Explained

As a proud supporter and admirer of Kamala Harris, I find it disheartening to witness such ignorant and divisive remarks from former President Donald Trump regarding her heritage. It is essential to acknowledge that Kamala Harris is an extraordinary individual whose identity transcends any racial or ethnic label.


The latest statements made by ex-President Donald Trump concerning Vice President Kamala Harris’ ancestry have ignited significant controversy and heightened curiosity about her origins. Trump’s words have stirred debate over whether Kamala Harris feels a stronger connection to her Indian or African American roots.

Here is everything to know about Kamala Harris’ heritage.

What did Donald Trump say about Kamala Harris’ heritage?

More recently, Donald Trump has stirred up debate by commenting on Kamala Harris’ background. At a gathering of African-American reporters in Chicago, Trump made a false claim that Harris became ‘Black’ only a few years back, implying a sudden transformation in her racial identity.

As a supporter, I can say that when asked about Republicans calling Harris a “DEI hire,” Trump raised doubts about her background. He stated, “I’ve always known her to be of Indian descent, and she seemed to focus on promoting Indian culture. It wasn’t until recently, many years later, that I learned she identified as Black. Now, it seems she wants to be recognized as such. So, I’m not sure, is she Indian or African American?” (Paraphrased from CNN)

Previously, the ex-president remarked, “I have respect for both, but it’s clear that she doesn’t, as she strongly identified as Indian initially, yet suddenly transformed and identified herself as Black.”

As a dedicated gamer, I found myself reflecting on Trump’s remarks later in the day, and let me tell you, it was just another round of the same old game – more division and disrespect.

Did Kamala Harris say she is Indian?

Kamala Harris openly embraces and celebrates her multiracial background, which includes both African-American and South Asian roots, throughout her career in public service. Her official biography on the White House website highlights her as a groundbreaking figure, being the first woman, the first Black American, and the first individual of South Asian descent to be elected Vice President of the United States.

Back in 2016, when I sat down with The New York Times, I took the opportunity to clarify my racial and ethnic identity. I explained that my mom, who had two beautiful Black babies, nurtured us to become strong Black women. Fast forward to 2019, in my memoir, The Truths We Hold, I delved deeper into this topic, revealing how my mother and grandparents instilled a deep sense of pride in our South Asian roots. It’s important to note that as a mom raising two Black daughters, she was always mindful of our dual heritage, making sure we understood and embraced both sides of our identity. (Paraphrased from Forbes)

Is Kamala Harris Indian?

According to a fact-check by Reuters, Kamala Harris often describes herself as both black and South Asian, acknowledging the rich cultural background she received from her ancestors.

Born in Oakland, California, Harris traces her roots to two distinct cultures: her father, Donald Harris, is from Jamaica, and her mother, Shyamala Gopalan, is originally from southern India. This unique blend of heritage makes Harris a trailblazer as the first individual who identifies as both African-American and South Asian American to occupy a prominent position within the U.S. government.

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2024-08-01 16:10