A hero of mine

We all have people in our lives who were a guiding light for us. For me, it was Mrs. Shelton.

A thoughtful, warm, and generous woman who lived by the belief that you always lend a hand to those in need. Her values carried with me in every phase of my life: from my childhood to being sworn in as California’s senator.

I lived down the street from Mrs. Shelton’s house, which doubled as my daycare center. It was small but welcoming, with posters of leaders like Frederick Douglass, Sojourner Truth, and Harriet Tubman on the wall.

I learned about famous Black activists, inventors, and scholars from Mrs. Shelton. I was empowered to mold myself exactly into the woman that I wanted to be. Build a future that I could thrive and succeed in.

My gratitude to Mrs. Shelton is everlasting and I will always carry her with me.

This Black History Month, I take a moment to reflect on all the phenomenal American heroes who have built America from its foundation and still work every day to make this country stronger, better, and more free. Heroes like Mrs. Shelton.

Happy Black History Month,

— Kamala