Indian-Americans launch organisation to politically empower South Asian community

Washington, April 20

A group of Indian-Americans who played a key role in Joe Biden's victory in US presidential election have announced the formation of South Asians for America (SAFA) – an organisation that aims to advance the political empowerment of the community.

Leaders from South Asians for Biden (SAB) formed SAFA after assessing the groundbreaking impact of their organising efforts during the 2020 general election and Georgia senate election victories, which led to the Democrats winning the White House, the House of Representatives, and the Senate.

SAFA is dedicated to increasing the political power of the South Asian diaspora community, the SAB said, adding that the aim is to increase civic engagement, political participation and the network of South Asians.

SAFA is slated to be formally launched on May 6 featuring Gold Star parent Khizr Khan, venerated attorney Neal Katyal, Girls Who Code Founder and CEO Reshma Saujani, actress and singer featured in Broadway's Hamilton Arianna Afsar, Nina Davuluri, Farhan Tahir and Fawzia Mirza.

The launch event would also include Indian-American Congressman Raja Krishnamoorthy, Virginia State Senator Ghazala Hashmi, former candidate for Pennsylvania Auditor General Nina Ahmad, and Vermont State Senator Kesha Ram.

“We are excited to announce the launching of South Asians for America,” said Neha Dewan, National Director of SAB, who will be at the helm of SAFA.

“The 2020 election cycle demonstrated the need for an organisation that is dedicated to empowering South Asians on a continuous basis, and not just in the lead up to an election,” she said. PTI