“Faith is a Verb”: Kamala Harris on Living and Acting on Beliefs

Democrats rally behind Vice President Kamala Harris as she steps into the race for the White House. Harris, the first female African American and Asian American Vice President, brings a rich tapestry of faith and culture to her campaign.

Harris's upbringing blends Baptist and Hindu traditions, reflecting her immigrant parents. Raised in Oakland, young Kamala often attended the 23rd Avenue Church of God, guided by her neighbor Regina Shelton. “I sang in the children’s choir,” Harris recalled, “That's where I learned that faith is a verb, something we must live and show in action.”

Her mother, Shyamala Gopalan, a Hindu, ensured Kamala's childhood included regular temple visits. This dual influence shaped Harris's early understanding of spirituality.

Harris's marriage to Jewish lawyer Douglas Emhoff added another layer to her religious journey. The couple embraced Jewish customs, from smashing a glass at their wedding to celebrating Jewish festivals.

Harris maintains a solid connection to her Baptist roots despite her multifaith background. Speaking at a church in 2019, she reflected on Jesus’s teachings about neighborly love. “Jesus tells us your neighbor is not just the person who lives next door… but the man by the side of the road facing hardship,” she said, highlighting her commitment to social justice.

Harris used a “well-worn” family Bible in her Senate swearing-in, earning approval from then-Vice President Joe Biden.