DESI POWER IN THE US CABINET

MEET THE INDIAN-AMERICAN WOMEN IN US PRESIDENT JOE BIDEN’S CABINET.

- SARAH KHALKO

Joe Biden was sworn in as the 46th President of the United States on January 20, 2021 in a historic inauguration. The new President’s cabinet is also in the spotlight—it is being hailed as one of the most diverse ever, featuring a large number of people of colour. Notably, it is also the first time so many Indian-Americans have been roped into important roles. Kamala Harris, Vice President of the United States who took oath along with Biden, is the most prominent face, yet she is only the front-runner in a remarkable line-up of 13 Indian-American women who round up the cabinet, with many being in key White House positions.

Here is a low-down of the prolific Indian-American women chosen to be a part of the Biden administration:

KAMALA HARRIS

Position: VICE PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES

Why she’s so good for the post: Harris has held important political positions over the course of her distinguished career— as District Attorney of San Francisco, California Attorney General, and United States Senator. A graduate of Howard University and Hastings College of Law, University of California, Harris has spent several years in the civil rights justice arena.

Why we’re going to be watching: Of Indian heritage, Harris has been greatly inspired by her Indian mother’s pioneering work and dedication. She is the first woman, first Black American, and first South Asian American to be the Vice President of the United States. As someone who has held key positions in the past, Harris is well-versed with the responsibility that comes with her new role at the White House. We are excited to see how she uses her expertise to navigate a new era of American politics.

NEERA TANDEN