This resolution recognizes the significant contributions of the Indian American diaspora to the United States while condemning recent acts of racism and intolerance against them.
Thomas Suozzi
Representative
NY-3
This resolution formally recognizes the significant contributions of the Indian American diaspora to the United States across various sectors. It also strongly condemns the recent rise in racism, hate incidents, and discrimination targeting Indian Americans and the broader South Asian community. Furthermore, the bill emphasizes the importance of the strategic partnership between the United States and India.
House Resolution Formally Recognizes 5.2 Million Indian Americans and Condemns Rising Hate
This resolution is a formal statement from Congress that recognizes the contributions of the Indian American diaspora and condemns acts of racism and hate against them. Essentially, it’s the House of Representatives giving a public nod of respect to the over 5.2 million Americans of Indian heritage and acknowledging their profound impact on the U.S. economy, culture, and science.
The Diplomatic Connection and Diaspora Strength
The resolution starts by affirming that the U.S.-India relationship is one of the world’s most crucial democratic partnerships. It makes the case that the strength of this relationship is built largely on the people-to-people ties, specifically highlighting the Indian American community. This group is noted for its high educational attainment—with over 77% holding college degrees—and its success across diverse sectors, including politics, medicine, and technology. This isn’t just feel-good language; it’s Congress officially recognizing that this community is a major asset to the nation (as detailed in the text recognizing contributions).
Standing Up Against Hate
Crucially, the resolution pivots from recognition to condemnation. It explicitly addresses the fact that Indian Americans, despite their success and diversity (spanning Hindu, Sikh, Muslim, and other faiths), are facing increasing hostility. The text points out that this hostility is often fueled by racism, religious intolerance, and misinformation. Specifically, it calls out the recent surge in online anti-Hindu and anti-Indian sentiment, noting that reported harassment incidents against South Asians, including Hindus and Sikhs, have doubled.
What This Means in the Real World
Since this is a resolution, it is non-binding—it doesn’t create new laws or allocate funding. Think of it as a strong, official statement of values and support. For the Indian American community, this means formal recognition from the legislative branch of their importance and a public acknowledgment of the challenges they face. For everyday people, this resolution reinforces the message that hate and discrimination based on origin or religion are unacceptable. By specifically condemning acts of hate, discrimination, and violence directed at Indian Americans, the House is using its platform to try and push back against the rising tide of online and real-world bias affecting this highly visible community.