According to census data, the number of Indian immigrants in the country has increased significantly from just 12,000 in 1960 to a staggering 5 million today.
The latest US Census report shows a noteworthy demographic change, as Indian-Americans have now surpassed Chinese-Americans to become the most significant “Asian-alone” group in the United States. The report indicates that a remarkable 4.4 million people self-identified as “Indian-alone,” indicating a significant 55% rise over the last ten years. This data highlights the urgent need for proportional representation within the government.
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Although there has been an increase in the number of Indian Americans in Congress, it is worth noting that only five out of the 535 members are of Indian descent. Moreover, some prominent figures like Vivek Ramaswamy, Nikki Haley, Bobby Jindal, and Kamala Harris have faced criticism for not seeming “Indian American enough” at different points in their careers.
During an interview with ABC News, Democratic Representatives Raja Krishnamoorthi, Shri Thanedar, and Pramila Jayapal emphasized the importance of Indian American representation in government.
In 1960, the number of Indian immigrants in the US was only 12,000. Today, there are over 5 million Indian immigrants residing in the country. The remarkable growth of the Indian American community is evident with the rise of Vice President Kamala Harris, who has a half-Indian heritage, and the presence of five Indian American members of Congress. With such significant achievements, many are curious about the factors that have contributed to this remarkable growth.
Krishnamoorthi believes that it is a natural progression for immigrant groups in the United States to establish financial stability, support local non-profit organizations, religious institutions, and assist those who are in need, just like themselves. Eventually, these groups become involved in the civic affairs of the country.
As a resident living in Detroit, I once believed that I had achieved my American dream. However, my perspective shifted when I witnessed the lack of accessibility to this dream for many people. It became apparent to me that opportunities were scarce. It was then that I realized the best way for me to help was by serving the public. My goal now is to assist others in achieving their American dream, just as I had the opportunity to do so in the past.
ABC News recently reported a significant increase of approximately 70% in the number of undocumented Indian immigrants over the last 15 years. They questioned why this surge is happening presently, different from how previous immigrants arrived.
According to Krishnamoorthi, the current state of our legal immigration system is a complete mess, leading many people to feel desperate. He explains that the issues surrounding legal immigration and undocumented immigration are intertwined. While it doesn’t excuse people entering the country illegally, it does help to shed light on the situation. For example, if someone from India were to apply for an H-1B visa today and receive it, it would take them a staggering 100 years to transition to a green card. Krishnamoorthi clarifies that this number is not an exaggeration, highlighting the significant flaws in the current immigration system.
ABC NEWS is currently present at the IA Impact Summit, a significant conference for Indian Americans that occurs annually. The conference holds immense importance, and this year, it seems to be even more crucial.
Jayapal emphasized the significance of boosting the representation of Indian Americans, stating that it presents a genuine opportunity to increase their numbers.
According to what I’ve been hearing, the potential for doubling is a concern, as reported by ABC News.
Having a double representation of JAYAPAL in Congress can bring about several positive changes. It can alter the way people perceive their opportunities in the country. The presence of such representation can also encourage people to participate more actively in the democratic process by exercising their right to vote. Moreover, it can lead to better policies that benefit the citizens of the country.
Thanedhar believes that the current representation of only five members for the Indian American population is not enough. He suggests that more efforts should be made to increase the representation, as Indian Americans have excelled in various fields, including the economy. However, he also notes that the community needs to build its political muscle to achieve this goal.
ABC NEWS recently discussed the possibility of TikTok being purchased by someone in the United States. The question on everyone’s mind is whether or not a buyer has been identified. Is there a potential buyer for TikTok in the country at present?
According to Krishnamoorthi, he has not come across any individual who prefers to have their TikTok account controlled by the Chinese Communist Party rather than having a TikTok that is not under their control. The aim of the bill is not to ban TikTok, but rather to ensure that it is not being controlled by the Chinese Communist Party.
According to ABC News, the product will be prohibited if it fails to sell within the next 12 months.
Krishnamoorthi stated that the product will only be available after it is sold.
ABC News asked, “How big of a concern do you think can be found before November?”
According to Jayapal, the probability of a few individuals taking control of TikTok is high. However, she also expresses that she has concerns about these individuals controlling TikTok’s content, similar to her concerns about the Chinese government. She believes that this highlights a larger issue of how social media platforms and communication are addressed. Jayapal acknowledges that the negative impact on the election is possible, but she also believes that it will not be the determining factor. She suggests that there are many issues that young people care about, and TikTok may be just one of them.
According to ABC News, Vivek Ramaswamy, Nikki Haley, Bobby Jindal, and Kamala Harris have faced criticism for not being considered “Indian American enough” on multiple occasions.
Krishnamoorthi believes that one should not try to conform to a conventional idea of what a presidential candidate should be or who the American people will accept. In his opinion, people should stay true to themselves and not alter their persona in any way. He acknowledges that everyone is unique and should not be faulted for being who they are. According to Krishnamoorthi, the American people are intelligent and discerning, and will not be swayed by a false image.
ABC News asked about your thoughts on the current state of American Indian relationships, given your global perspective and the fact that your parents still reside in India.
Jayapal has expressed her concerns and spoken out about the matter. Despite having family living in India and having lived in various Indian villages, she has been criticized by some Indian Americans who claim that she is not Indian enough.
Religious freedom, freedom of communication, and freedom of the press hold immense significance to me. These values are dear to Indian democracy, and I strongly endorse them. However, recent incidents of anti-Muslim sentiment in India, along with the harsh crackdown on the press by the Prime Minister, have been a cause of concern for me. Moreover, reports of extrajudicial killings and attempted assassinations in the country, which are currently under investigation by the Department of Justice, are alarming.
I believe that India holds immense potential to make a positive impact on the world. The country has a unique opportunity to become a powerhouse and drive global progress.
ABC NEWS recently asked a quick rapid-fire question to its audience: what is their favorite Indian food or snack that they know they should avoid, but can’t resist? This question aimed to spark a fun conversation among the audience and showcase their love for Indian cuisine, despite the potential health risks associated with certain foods.
Jayapal loves pakoras.
ABC News recently questioned whether samosas, a popular Indian snack, could be the next big food trend in the United States.
Krishnamoorthi indulges in delicious samosas and naan bread.
Jayapal introduced herself as Pudding Polly.
ABC News recently posed an interesting question: if a biopic were to be made about you, would you prefer a Bollywood star or a Hollywood Indian to play your role? It’s a thought-provoking question that highlights the cultural differences between these two film industries. While there are many talented actors in both Bollywood and Hollywood, each has its own unique style and approach to filmmaking. Ultimately, the decision comes down to personal preference and the qualities that you would like your on-screen persona to embody. So, who would you choose to play you in a biopic?
Thanedear witnessed the presence of none other than the renowned Bollywood actor, Shah Rukh Khan.
According to ABC News, it is still uncertain how many years we will have to wait until an Indian American becomes president.
Thanehar eagerly awaits the imminent arrival.
Jayapal stated that the information will be soon provided.
