This week we at SAAVETX EF advocated for issues important to South Asian Americans at multiple forums in Washington DC. We met with policy directors at the White House where topics ranging from #education, #healthcare and #bilateralrelations with South Asian countries were discussed. Our delegation also attended the Indian American Impact Project’s Summit on Tuesday and networked with elected representatives, Indian community leaders, filmmakers, thought leaders and activists. The community’s contributions were highlighted by speakers like Senator Chuck Schumer and Leader Hakeem Jefferies during their speeches at the gala that evening. Senator Cory Booker energized the crowd with his call to action and performer Rizwan Jagani had us spellbound with his viola rendition of music maestro AR Rahman’s tunes.
The following day we met 1:1 with elected lawmakers including Ro Khanna (CA), Shri Thanedar (MI), Lizzie Flecther and Collin Allred (TX), Raja Krishnamoorthy (IL) and Pramila Jayapal (WA). All of them well articulated their plans including legislations being drafted that will benefit AAPI communities not only in their districts but also nationally. What an amazing group of leaders who are dedicated towards the progress of our country!
I am still reliving the moments from the last few days. It has been an incredible honor to meet with folks who are stepping up and making a difference in their own ways. Whether it was the mom who founded Desi Rainbow to create a support group for parents of Desi LGBTQ children, the author who started a podcast for mental health topics for the community or the young doctor who is the first Indian American elected to the Iowa state house. Walking the halls of White House felt surreal when I thought about my great grandparents who fought for India’s freedom from the British Raj. They ensured that the voices of their fellow citizens were heard and I hope to continue the family tradition by ensuring SAAVETX EF continues to amplify the voices of South Asian Americans.
Walking on a sine wave 
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