The Truths We Hold: An American Journey
By Kamala Harris
Reviewed by Meilee Anderson
I’m not big into politics nor do I typically read books written by politicians but I do like reading books written by trailblazing women and I wanted to know more about our first female Vice President, Kamala Harris. As soon as possible I got my hands on a copy of her book, “The Truths We Hold”. The waitlist for the book was 7-weeks at my local library.
I found “The Truths We Hold” to a combination of memoir, biography, and political campaign platform. Kamala Harris struck me as articulate. I liked how she expressed her views on a variety of topics including immigration, crime, social justice, and equality. I found some topics in this book difficult. The chapter that addressed the nomination of Judge Brett Cavanaugh and the chapter on the recent immigration troubles along the US/Mexican border were painful to read.
I appreciated a chance to learn about Kamala Harris beyond what I see on television. I enjoyed hearing about her childhood, career as a district attorney, and her foray into social justice. All my life people have mispronounced my name. When Kamala took a minute to explain how to properly say her name, I smiled and made note of it. (Say Comma-la” not Kah-MAL-uh)
Her father was from Jamaica, her mother from India. Her parents came to the US to pursue higher education. Her father became an economics professor at Stanford University. While both parents were well educated, they both earned their doctorates. Kamala’s mother’s story captivated me. Her mom immigrated to the US from India as a young woman. She became a scientist focused on breast cancer research. She was also a passionate activist. Kamala Harris was born in the 60’s and as a child went to protests and marches with her mother. Kamala’s parents divorced. Kamala and her sister grew up raised by their strong, intelligent, capable mother.
My impression of Kamala is that she’s intelligent, passionate, and not afraid to fight for what she believes in. Nor is afraid to have hard conversations, or tackle thorny problems. She struck me as a woman undeterred by bullies or being considered an underdog.
While Kamala Harris served as a senator, she was appointed to four different committees: Intelligence, Homeland Security, Budget, and Environment and Public Works. I like the blend of those committees and what exposure and experience her time there must have done to help prepare her for her job ahead.
I am curious to know more about other women like Elizabeth Warren, and Hilary Clinton I will wait a while before diving into another book by a politician. I have zero regrets about reading “The Truths We Hold”. I’m glad I spent a few days learning more about this powerhouse of a woman.
Buy it here.
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