The Leaf: October 2024 Edition
Hindu American Foundation (HAF)
Promoting dignity, mutual respect, and pluralism
HAF wishes our subscribers a very Happy Diwali!
In this Diwali issue of The Leaf, we’re grateful to share the latest highlights of our work and introduce new resources, meaningful events, and impactful programs that have driven our advocacy forward. To each one of you who voiced your support, stood by our side, and were vocal in your encouragement, thank you. Your support reminds us of the strength of our community. May this Diwali bring light, joy, and the courage to uplift each other as we walk together on the path of dharma!
Message from our Executive Director: Celebrating Diwali with Resilience and Unity
As we gather to celebrate Diwali, a time symbolizing the victory of light over darkness and dharma over adharma, our Executive Director, Suhag Shukla, Esq., shares a powerful message on the resilience and strength that define our community. In the face of challenges, our collective light only shines brighter, illuminating paths forward with the wisdom of our rich traditions and civilizational legacy.
This Diwali, embrace the spirit of unity—spreading kindness, uplifting one another, and standing strong together. From all of us at HAF, we wish you a vibrant and meaningful Diwali filled with joy, peace, and purpose. May our shared values guide us and inspire our journey ahead.
Watch our video ?? Our Executive Director's, Suhag Shukla's Diwali Message
Grassroots Updates
HAF celebrates Diwali at the White House
HAF was honored to attend this year’s Diwali celebration at the White House, where President Joe Biden addressed the Indian American community, recognizing their invaluable contributions to the nation. The evening was enriched by wishes recorded by astronaut Sunita Williams from 260 miles above Earth and included a touching speech from Surgeon General Dr. Vivek Murthy. His words resonated deeply with all in attendance: "Choose light... always, whatever the future may bring." This message perfectly captured the essence of Diwali and the strength of our community within the American story.
As Diwali continues to become part of the American mainstream, it’s inspiring to see its message of inclusivity and unity embraced by diverse communities nationwide. This growing recognition reflects how deeply Diwali resonates, illuminating paths toward mutual understanding and cultural appreciation. We’re proud to see Diwali shine brighter each year!
Empowered ED Leadership Summit
It was an honor to collaborate with the Coalition for Empowered Education to address critical issues impacting Hindu American students in classrooms nationwide. As ideological agendas increasingly shape educational narratives, students are facing biased portrayals that marginalize their culture, faith, and heritage.
At the recent? Empowered Ed Conference, HAF’s Sangeetha Shankar and Samir Kalra joined peers to discuss how stereotyped narratives on caste and other biases in textbooks are impacting Hindu American youth. During panels like “Building a New Education Movement,” they shared actionable insights to depoliticize classrooms and promote truly inclusive, accurate, and respectful portrayals of Hindu culture and contributions.
Our shared goal is clear: to create an educational environment where all students feel seen, respected, and empowered.?
Upcoming Events:
For more details, visit our events page .
Resources?
Get Out the Vote Guide
Did you know that even if you are not a US citizen, there are multiple ways to lawfully support candidates and causes you care about in the upcoming election?
With Election Day in a few days away(November 5), navigating the rules and regulations of campaigns, elections, and the voting process can be confusing. To help you understand these intricacies, we’re excited to announce our newest community resource, a Get Out The Vote (GOTV) Guide organized by age and immigration status.
领英推荐
Our GOTV Guide makes it easy to see how you can legally get involved, whether by casting a vote, working as a poll worker, or even just advocating for issues that matter to you.
Learn more about how you can get involved!?
Managing Election Anxiety
With Election Day in just a few days, many of us may feel anxious about outcomes and potential political disagreements. HAF has created a helpful guide on managing election anxiety, focusing on ways to stay grounded and prioritize your mental well-being. Remember, when things feel out of our control, sometimes the best action is acceptance. Treat yourself with the same patience and kindness you’d offer a friend, and let’s support each other through this season with respect and understanding.
Check out HAF’s guide for helpful strategies, and keep our shared values strong.
Complete guide here ?? Managing Election Anxiety
Podcast Release?
Title: Hindu At Heart: Practicing restorative justice in New York City public schools | Hemanth Venkataraman
Release Date: Thursday, Thursday, October 17, 2024
Panel: Indu Viswanath and Hemanth Venkataraman
In this episode of That's So Hindu Indu Viswanathan of the Hindu at Heart series, speaks with Hemanth Venkataraman an NYC-based educator and restorative justice practitioner. They explore his experiences growing up Hindu in the 80s & 90s in New Jersey, his time teaching in the NYC public school system, co-founding Unity Prep Charter School, and his current work with School Culture Solutions to bring restorative justice to schools. Be sure to tune in!
Stay Connected
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Engage: Share your experiences and feedback on this month's events in the comments. Stay Connected: Look out for our upcoming events and continue to be an active part of our community.
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Thank you for being a part of our journey!
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