Indian-American Lawmakers Seek Greater Diaspora Role In Politics Amid Rising Anti-Hindu And Anti

Indian-American lawmakers have urged members of the diaspora to consider contesting elections and taking a more active role in public life to make their voice heard amid increasing incidents of anti-India hate in parts of the United States.

Addressing an event at Capitol Hill organised by the Foundation for India and Indian Diaspora Studies on Tuesday (23 June), Congressman Raja Krishnamoorthi said Indian-Americans, despite being amongst the most educated and prosperous communities in the country, are facing new challenges.

Krishnamoorthi highlighted the rise of anti-Hindu, anti-Indian and anti-Desi hate, urging community members to become more engaged in the political process.

The Democrat lawmaker from Illinois encouraged attendees to consider running for city council, state house, state senate or even the US Congress to ensure their voices are heard.

Congressman Suhas Subramanyam echoed the sentiment, saying one of the best ways to address issues facing the community is to have representation in decision-making bodies.

Congressman Shri Thanedar said hate against immigrants in the country is on the rise and urged members of the diaspora to be united whilst dealing with the issue.

The fourth annual Capitol Hill advocacy event brought more than 150 delegates from 25 states to Washington for a day of meetings with members of Congress and Senate offices on issues affecting both the bilateral relationship and the Indian-American community.

FIIDS leader Khanderao Kand said delegates spent the day discussing Indo-Pacific security, supply-chain resilience, critical minerals, trade, H-1B visas, immigration reform and concerns about rising anti-India and anti-Hindu rhetoric.

The Indian-American community, estimated at 5.2 million people as of 2023, is amongst the fastest-growing and most influential ethnic groups in the United States, with increasing representation in business, academia and public service.

Several other Democratic lawmakers, including Sanford Bishop, James Walkinshaw, Brad Sherman and Bill Huizenga, also assured support to the Indian-American community in addressing their concerns on issues related to immigration and the backlog for permanent residency applications.

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