Kamala Harris: To Be the First

ABC's Kamala Harris: To Be the First is a compelling and insightful 2020 documentary that seeks to shed light on the life and career of a woman who has garnered worldwide attention for her exceptional achievements. The hour-long program shines the spotlight on Kamala Harris, the first woman of South Asian and African American descent to be elected as vice president of the United States.

Produced by the ABC News team, this riveting documentary delves deep into the life of Kamala Harris, offering a kaleidoscopic view of her journey against the backdrop of the United States' complex socio-political landscape. From her childhood in Oakland, California, to her ascension to one of the highest offices in the land, Kamala Harris: To Be the First provides an immersive experience, revealing an intricate tapestry of experiences that shaped and propelled Harris's meteoric rise.

What makes this documentary particularly remarkable is its focus on bringing to the fore the human side of Kamala Harris. While plenty is known about her political achievements, this documentary seeks to explore her formative years, her motivations, her inspirations, and the people who played crucial roles in her life.

The narrative effectively conveys Harris's rich cultural heritage that she blends with pride and respect. The story of her early life in mixed-race America, where she draws strength from her African American and Indian roots, is profoundly inspiring. Through exclusive interviews with close family, friends, mentors, and teachers, viewers gain an intimate glimpse into Harris's personal narrative, highlighting how her upbringing and diverse heritage shaped her eventual beliefs and political ideals.

In Kamala Harris: To Be the First, viewers can expect to gain an understanding of Harris's legal and political career. From her time in law school to her quick rise in the political arena, this documentary showcases her successes, hurdles, responsibilities, and breakthroughs. Importantly, it also underscores her commitment to public service and social justice, which were central to her as San Francisco's District Attorney, Attorney General of California, and as United States Senator.

The documentary builds on her progression as a political figure without shying away from discussing some of the criticisms and challenges she confronted. Including everything from her prosecutorial records to her positions on key policy issues, the documentary lays out a comprehensive and balanced view of her career. However, the focus is not solely on Harris's political life; it also delves into her multifaceted personality, encompassing her roles as a daughter, sister, and stepmother.

One of the standout elements of Kamala Harris: To Be the First is its presentation. It uses a blend of archival footage, personal photos, interviews, and first-person narratives that facilitate the viewer's journey through various stages of Harris's life and career. The documentary is enhanced by the smooth and eloquent narrating style of renowned actress Robin Roberts from ABC’s Good Morning America, whose voice brings both urgency and poise to the documentary's tone.

Ultimately, Kamala Harris: To Be the First doesn't just feel like a biography of a political figure; it resembles a celebration, a tribute to a trailblazer who has broken several glass ceilings in her storied journey. The documentary effectively exemplifies her journey as not simply her own, but a testament to the collective accomplishments of various communities she represents.

At the core of the documentary is the theme of firsts - the tribulations and triumphs that come with being the first. Alda imbued passion, dedication, and immense struggles, Harris's historic journey as the first woman of color vice president is central to the documentary’s narrative.

For those interested in politics, women's progress, or simply a human story of ambition and perseverance, Kamala Harris: To Be the First on ABC offers an in-depth, balanced, and inspiring look at a figure who has already carved an indelible place in history.