US Lawmakers Urge Indian-Americans to Join Public Life to Counter Anti-India Sentiment
Congressmen Shri Thanedar and Raja Krishnamoorthi call for greater civic participation, saying stronger political representation is key to countering prejudice and protecting the contributions of the Indian-American community.
WASHINGTON, Jul 27: Two prominent Indian-American members of the US Congress have encouraged the Indian diaspora to take a more active role in American public life, arguing that greater political participation is essential to addressing prejudice and strengthening the community’s voice.
Speaking at an event marking the 250th anniversary of US Independence, Democratic Congressman Shri Thanedar of Michigan said immigrants have played a defining role in building the United States and deserve recognition and respect for their contributions. He warned that hostility directed at immigrant communities undermines the country’s founding values and should not be accepted.
Thanedar urged Indian-Americans to consider careers in public service, saying meaningful change comes when community members participate directly in governance and policymaking. According to him, stronger representation at the local, state and federal levels would help ensure that the interests and concerns of Indian-Americans are heard.
He said the community possesses the experience, talent and commitment needed to contribute effectively to public institutions and encouraged more individuals to step forward as candidates for elected office.
Illinois Congressman Raja Krishnamoorthi echoed the call, saying Indian-Americans have become an inseparable part of American society and should not remain silent in the face of discrimination. Referring to instances of anti-India and anti-Hindu sentiment, he pledged to oppose all forms of hatred and intolerance.
Krishnamoorthi also recalled facing calls for his deportation to India during his political career, describing the incident as an example of the prejudice that some members of the community continue to encounter. Despite such experiences, he stressed that Indian-Americans remain committed to the country’s democratic values and future.
Highlighting the achievements of the diaspora, he said Indian-Americans are among the most educated and economically successful communities in the United States. He noted their significant presence in sectors such as healthcare, where they account for a large share of doctors, and in the hospitality industry, where many entrepreneurs have built successful businesses.
The congressman urged members of the community, regardless of political affiliation, to contest elections for positions ranging from city councils and state legislatures to the US House of Representatives and the Senate. He said active participation in democratic institutions is essential at a time when communities are being tested by rising social and political divisions.
Krishnamoorthi emphasised that increased representation would not only strengthen the Indian-American community but also reinforce the broader principles of equality, diversity and inclusion that define the United States.
The celebration was organised by the Indian American Committee, led by Narasimha Koppula, Ramesh Kapur, Deepak Raj, Shekhar Tiwari and Harsh Sethi, to commemorate the 250th anniversary of the US Declaration of Independence, observed on July 4. The event brought together community leaders, public representatives and members of the Indian diaspora to celebrate the enduring relationship between India and the United States while reaffirming their commitment to democratic values and civic engagement.
