OLYMPIA – The Washington State Senate passed a resolution Monday honoring the contributions of Indian Americans to the culture and history of Washington state and the United States. 

The measure was sponsored by Sen. Manka Dhingra (D-Redmond), the first Sikh state legislator in American history, and Sen. Vandana Slatter (D-Bellevue). Both spoke about the shared democratic values of India and the United States.  

“At a time when communities across our country are experiencing fear—fear of racial profiling, kidnapping, detention, family separation, and violence at the hands of federal agents—it is more important than ever that we recommit ourselves to the democratic principles that define us. Democracies require hard work, vigilance, and collective responsibility. We must continue speaking up and speaking out against what is happening in this country because that is what democracy looks like,” Dhingra said. “Now more than ever, each of us has a role to play in standing up to ensure that the rights, values, and ideals of the two largest democracies are upheld.” 

“As an immigrant and daughter of immigrants, I know what it’s like to build a life someplace new and to contribute to a community that does not yet know you,” Slatter said. “This is the story of so many immigrants and Indian Americans in Washington state and our nation. Today we celebrate India Republic Day and the contributions of Indian Americans, while also centering the experience of immigrants across the country during these challenging times when our democracy is being threatened. India’s history of centuries of oppression and colonial rule is a reminder of how precious democracy is and that it’s not guaranteed. However, India’s history also teaches us that democracy can thrive and we can persevere during times of struggle when we speak up for our neighbors and defend our dignity.”

The floor session was opened with a prayer by Mustafa Mohamedali of the Islamic Center of Olympia and Srinivas Khedam.  

The Senate also recognized members of the Indian community in attendance, including Consul General Prakash Gupta. 

Dhingra and Slatter’s remarks can be viewed and downloaded here. 

 

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