US Vice President Kamala Harris addressed the annual summit of Indian American Impact, advocating for increased participation of Indian Americans in elected offices. She emphasized the disparity between the growing Indian American population and their representation in elected positions, encouraging members of the community to run for office.
Kamala Harris acknowledged the progress made in Indian American participation in electoral processes but stressed that the numbers still do not reflect the community’s size. Currently, there are 5 Indian American members of Congress, with expectations of this number doubling by 2024.
Indian American Impact, a democratic party think tank, plays a crucial role in supporting and funding Indian Americans running for elected offices, contributing to the community’s political involvement.
Highlighting the significance of Indian American voters, Kamala Harris noted their potential to sway key races across the country. She commended Impact’s efforts in electing community members and senators, emphasizing the importance of seeking office to shape the country’s future.
Kamala Harris underscored her personal journey as a testament to America’s promise and urged aspiring candidates not to feel alone in their pursuits. She encouraged them to embrace their unique perspectives and experiences, assuring them of support and solidarity from the community.
Deepak Raj, co-founder of Impact, lauded Kamala Harris’s role in the organization’s formation and hailed her as a trailblazer for women, immigrants, and minorities. Despite a brief disruption during the event, Kamala Harris’s message resonated, emphasizing the importance of standing for what is right and fair, echoing the values instilled by her Indian heritage.
