President Marc Morial opened the event by painting a stark picture of America one year into the current administration. “The state of America is a state of emergency,” he said. “And a year into this new administration, the United States is not just divided. It is damaged. It is damaged constitutionally. It is damaged culturally, and it is damaged economically.”

Economic growth has slowed from 3% in 2024 to below 2% in 2025, with black unemployment double the national rate at almost 8%. According to Melanie Campbell, President and CEO of National Coalition on Black Civic Participation, “In 2025 alone, more than 300,000 black women were pushed out of the labor force, partly due to the gutting of DEI protections and federal job cuts.”

Majority of Americans Support DEI

Contrary to political narratives suggesting public opposition to diversity initiatives, new research presented by Dr. Alicia Simmons of Hart Research revealed overwhelming support for equal opportunity principles. The research showed that 71% of voters rate diversity, equity, and inclusion positively, while 89% view equal opportunity favorably.

The polling, conducted over two years with more than 6,000 voters and 23 focus groups, found that Americans recognize structural inequalities and believe equal opportunity must be actively cultivated rather than left to chance. Notably, voters support giving additional consideration to qualified candidates from underrepresented groups by roughly two-to-one margins.

Asian American Leaders Speak Out

John C. Yang: Community Data Shows Overwhelming Support

John C. Yang, President and Executive Director of Asian Americans Advancing Justice (AAJC), confirms that the majority of Americans support DEI programs. He shared specific data showing that “over 90% of Asian-Americans recognize that diversity is a strength in this country,” while “only 10% of the public thinks that diversity, equity, inclusion somehow hurts Asian-Americans.”

Yang connected diversity programs directly to combating discrimination: “Two different studies have shown that over 30% of Asian-Americans have experienced discrimination often or very often. Now, we know that diversity, equity, and inclusion programs help to eliminate discrimination, help to tell the full story of the United States…it leads us to understand how all of our communities have contributed to this country.”

Yang concluded with a direct challenge to institutional leaders: “The question before institutions is not whether equal opportunity and fairness are popular enough, but whether they have the willingness, the leadership to exercise on this mandate. Quite simply, we demand diversity because the public demands diversity and they deserve diversity.”

Madalene Mielke: Confronting the Model Minority Myth

Madalene Mielke, President and CEO of the Asian-Pacific American Institute for Congressional Studies (APAICS), focused her remarks on the persistent underrepresentation of AANHPIs in government and the harmful stereotypes that perpetuate their exclusion. She highlighted the stark disparity in political representation: “The AANHPI community is one of the fastest growing ethnic groups in the United States with 7% of the population and yet we only make up about 1% of elected officials nationwide.”

Mielke outlined three critical demands for leaders. First, on language: “Our leaders need to stop using DEI as a buzzword. When we reduce our values to slogans, we lose the power to drive real change.”

Second, on stereotypes: “Leaders must reject and dismantle the Asian-American model minority myth. This harmful narrative suggests that our communities are never in need, systemically excluding us from DEI framework and denying our communities from vital resources and visibility.”

Third, on data: “We must reject the idea that AA and NHPI communities are a monolith. Our leaders need to continue to demand disagregated data in order to understand the unique diverse challenges faced by each of our subgroups. Because how can our communities be served if we are not accurately measured, if we are measured at all?”
Pushing back against the false choice between merit and diversity, Mielke emphasized: “Our leaders need to reaffirm that DEI is not a replacement for merit. We can be inclusive and considerate while still prioritizing excellence. We can do both.”

Greg Orton: Holding Power Accountable

Greg Orton, National Director National Council of Asian Pacific Americans (NCAPA), delivered particularly pointed remarks directed at both corporations and elected officials.

He was critical of corporate behavior during attacks on diversity programs, “As you all desperately try to contort yourselves to fly below the radar, let me tell you what we see. We see companies who when they want something, when they want access, when they want regulatory relief, when they want that tax break, they can marshall enormous resources that vastly outweigh anything that everyday Americans can do.”

He continued, “The other thing we see is that you also espouse these values of being good community partners. You are watching in real time as our communities are under attack and suddenly you lose that voice. We see that. As my colleagues have said, silence is a choice and it’s certainly not neutral.”

Turning to politicians, Orton warned: “Your legacy will be defined by how you use your platform. Right now, we are in a race to the bottom. When truth and integrity are sacrificed for clicks and monetization, you are given incredible privilege, protection, and status. Yet, so many of you abuse and devalue public trust.”

He added a critique that resonated with widespread voter frustration: “That is why so many Americans, fair or unfair, see Democrats and Republicans of two sides of the same trick coin that never flip in their favor.”

Orton closed with a sobering message to AAPI communities, “Friends, we are watching in real time whether American democracy can survive an attempt to violently reclaim power and redefine who is considered American and who has access to that power. Yes, they will let some of us in, but let me assure you, we are not part of their plan.”

He emphasized the importance of coalition work: “A coalition is not about agreeing on everything. It is about recognizing that we’re going to disagree on things, but there’s so much that we can agree on, so much that we can work together on. So, if there was ever a time for all of our communities to demand diversity and frankly demand more, it’s right now.”

Voices from the Coalition

Leaders across sectors spoke to the real-world impacts of recent policy changes.

Economic Impact: Ron Busby of the U.S. Black Chambers noted that minority-owned businesses represent 22% of all employer firms but receive only 6% of federal contract dollars, calling corporate retreat from diversity commitments “a choice, and it’s the wrong one.”

Legal Landscape: Janai Nelson of the Legal Defense Fund reminded attendees that many diversity programs are designed to help employers comply with existing civil rights laws, warning that abandoning them increases discrimination liability rather than reducing it.

Immigration Enforcement: Maya Berry of the Arab American Institute described communities living in “abject and absolute fear” from immigration raids, with families torn apart and children afraid to attend school.

Media Representation: Errin Haines of the National Association of Black Journalists highlighted that Black journalists still comprise only 6% of American newsrooms, barely changed from 5% in 1968 when the Kerner Commission report was published

State Leadership: Illinois Attorney General Kwame Raoul described how Democratic state attorneys general have filed 77 multi-state lawsuits against federal actions, some of them against DEI and voting rights, achieving success in roughly 77% of cases. He announced plans for a national campaign called “Liberty, Justice, and Opportunity for All” to coordinate messaging between state AGs and civil rights organizations.

A Call for Accountability

As the 2026 midterm elections approach, coalition members outlined clear expectations for candidates and corporations:

• Stop making commitments without accountability and contracts
• Stop using DEI as a political weapon while ignoring public support
• Start investing in diverse leadership pipelines for the future
• Start following the data on what drives business success and innovation

“We are in a state of emergency. But we are in a state of possibility,” Morial concluded, announcing plans for a pledge that candidates must sign to demonstrate commitment to equal opportunity principles before earning votes from coalition communities.

The roundtable emphasized that while diversity initiatives face political attacks, the American public, by substantial margins, continues to support the fundamental values of fairness, inclusion, and equal opportunity that these programs represent.

Watch Roundtable Recording

The world we live in today feels different than the one many of us grew up imagining. Power is no longer concentrated in one place, it is spread across many centers, including Washington, Beijing, New Delhi, Brussels, and beyond. This new multipolar reality can feel uncertain, even overwhelming. But for Asian Americans, it is also deeply familiar. We have always lived between worlds, carrying identities that stretch across oceans, histories, and cultures.

That duality has not always been easy. At times, it has meant proving loyalty in the face of suspicion or carrying the weight of stereotypes that never quite fit. Yet it has also been a gift. It allows us to see connections others miss, to hold multiple truths at once, and to remind our country that belonging is not a zero‑sum game. In this moment of global change, that gift is more important than ever.

Our history shows us how resilient we are. From exclusion laws to wartime incarceration, from the long march for civil rights to the rise of new immigrant voices, Asian Americans have endured and adapted. That resilience is not just survival. It is a way of navigating uncertainty with courage and creativity. In a fragmented world, where alliances shift and rivalries deepen, our ability to bridge divides is a rare strength.

Asian Americans are not bystanders in this multipolar world. We are connectors, advocates, and visionaries.

Advocacy has always been part of our story. Multipolarity intensifies debates about immigration, racial equity, and national identity. We know firsthand how global competition reverberates in the lives of ordinary families. That is why Asian American voices matter in shaping policy, not only to protect our communities, but to remind leaders that diplomacy must be rooted in empathy, not fear. And when we build coalitions with other marginalized groups, we strengthen democracy itself.

Memory and education keep us grounded. The stories of Asian American soldiers, activists, and immigrants are not just history lessons, they are guideposts. They remind us that we have always shaped the nation’s trajectory, even when our contributions were overlooked. Sharing those stories in classrooms, in community gatherings, and in the mediahelps others see multipolarity not as a threat, but as an opportunity for cooperation and understanding.

The future belongs to our youth, who already see themselves as global citizens. They are fluent in multiple cultures, comfortable with complexity, and eager to lead. Their voices will carry us forward, not only in cultural spaces but in nonprofits, civic institutions, and national debates. By modeling empathy and cooperation, they can guide the moral evolution of our society toward unity in diversity.

Asian Americans are not bystanders in this multipolar world. We are connectors, advocates, and visionaries. Our role is to remind both the United States and the wider world that strength lies not in dominance, but in cooperation; not in exclusion, but in shared humanity. Multipolarity is not something to fear. It is an invitation to reimagine belonging, justice, and peace.

This is our story, one of resilience, bridge‑building, and hope. And it is a story that belongs not only to us, but to the future of a world learning to live with many centers, many voices, and many possibilities.

We are in the midst of a huge political turmoil in the United States. The newly ballooned disdain towards Asians, especially Indian Americans, exposes some deep rooted racism in their fellow countrymen. Even accomplished Indian Americans including CEOs, entrepreneurs and political leaders born and raised here haven’t been spared. This racism also stems from ignorance and bias based on ancestry and faith. Hindu Americans who have lived here all their lives, following their traditions and faiths have been subject to attacks, told to “go back to India” and routinely ridiculed for their beliefs, by people on the right side of the political spectrum. This should be a matter of grave concern for every American citizen, whether one is black, white, or brown, and identifies as Asian American or not.

But ignoring and not also calling out the selective outrage by the far left is irresponsible and unfair to this discussion. The far left, which is portrays itself inclusive, embracing all immigrants and accepting of everyone, clearly and routinely demonstrates its double-standards. They have not taken a stance against the growing anti-Hindu hate that has been steadily increasing. Instead, they have been supporting policies that single out and target the Hindu community, policies that cleverly masquerade as anti-discriminatory legislation on the surface while full of alarming agendas. Far left folks seem unperturbed by the fact that more than half a dozen Hindu temples in the US have been vandalized just in the last couple of years, with highly inappropriate and obnoxious graffiti scribbled on the temple walls and signs. Not a peep! Now imagine the outcry if mosques had been vandalized and subject to targeted hate.

Many from the far left side of the spectrum have a problem with immigrants who are pro-merit, affluent and successful in their careers, because of their sheer hard work and talents, not because of freebies. Mamdami, a far left socialist falls into this category and has already proved himself to be a charlatan from his actions and speeches. Even if one ignores his lack of experience managing large projects, which is a huge red flag by itself for a city like New York, his socialist agenda filled with handouts: free childcare, free transportation, city run grocery stores, rent freeze etc. These promises sound great in a speech, but are next to impossible to implement, and bound to fail.

But more on Mamdani’s hypocrisy: New York City is home to America’s largest Jewish community, with more than one million Jews currently calling NYC their home. Hindus make up two percent of the population and several other faiths are part of the city’s diverse fabric. The city is vibrant, culturally rich and deserves a unifying leader who will represent every community in an equitable manner. Mamdani hasn’t indicated that he is the kind of leader who will stand up against attacks targeted at all faiths, especially Jews, or have the moral courage to call out anti-Hindu hatred and show zero tolerance for bigotry. Mamdani made it clear during his victory speech that his focus would be Islamophobia, not surprising considering his own Muslim faith. His promise to fight antisemitism, though, fell flat, with his actions and words leading up the election telling a completely different story. His campaign sowed deep division and did nothing to promote unity among different faiths. In the past week, his mealy-mouthed both-sidesing of an anti-Israel demonstration outside a synagogue in Manhattan clearly illustrate this.

Mamdani’s rise in politics has been a huge concern for many, including Muslim leaders who didn’t support him and chose to be vocal against his policies. There were several warnings about his antisemitic stance, including making excuses for violent slogans like “Globalize the Intifada.”

Bronx imam Sheikh Musa Drammeh vowed to organize a mission of Muslim leaders to Israel to model interfaith engagement following Mamdani’s debate pledge to not go there. Drammeh has dedicated much of his life to building bridges between Jews, Muslims and Christians in the Bronx, as well as fighting extremism and antisemitism.

Soraya Deen, an award-winning Muslim leader, lawyer and activist, had warned her community about Mamdani and wrote, “When Anti-Jewish crimes accounted for more than half of the total hate crimes in NYC, fermenting divisions is not the leadership New Yorkers need.” Deen and her Jewish friend Tali Gillette, both of whom are co-founders of Demonstrate Hope, not Hate national movement and education initiative, wrote, “ Too many in power treat our communities as chess pieces, claiming to speak for us.”

Asra Nomani, a well known Muslim feminist leader, journalist and author had warned everyone about Mamdani’s “Godsquad” filled with radical clerics, activists and political operatives who cheered gleefully when Hamas terrorists murdered more than 1200 innocent men, women and children on October 7th. These same groups and individuals cry Islamophobia and have mastered the art of playing victim while instigating and sometimes openly engaging in violent rhetoric against the US, Israel, and capitalism. They want to have the freedom to carry signs that say “Intifada NYC” and anyone who criticizes them will be quickly labeled an islamophobe and silenced.

Mamdani has been surrounded with, nurtured, supported and funded by these key players. He has willingly and enthusiastically associated himself with several radical Islamists including the extremist-linked imam Siraj Wahhaj, an unindicted co-conspirator in the 1993 WTC bombing trial, a supporter of Hamas, and has a history of vile anti-gay sentiments, including refering to homosexuality as a “disease”.

Mamdani attempted to normalize extremism through the individuals and groups he chose to seek endorsements from, while openly making disparaging comments about the democratically elected prime minister of India, Narendra Modi, whom he said he would arrest if he visited New York.

He has cited the same recycled, false narratives on the plight of minority faiths, especially Muslims in India claiming to be under attack, while it is clear for the world to see how Muslims, Christians, Jews and other religions in India have flourished for centuries enjoying freedom, rights and respect.

Mamdani led a mob of protestors in Times Square where the chants referred to Hindus as “harami” (bastards) and has criticized New York State Assemblywoman Jennifer Rajkumar, the first Hindu American elected to the body, as a puppet of Hindu nationalists.

The far left has a problem with Hindu Americans, whom they label fascists just because they are proud Hindus. Individuals and leaders are harassed and attacked using smear tactics and terms like Hindutva are weaponized and hurled at them because they are simply proud of their Hindu identity. The far left sure doesn’t have a problem collaborating with or endorsing radical Islamists and antisemites who hate the LGBTQ community. This disingenuous virtue signaling doesn’t sit well with centrists who want to elect moderate, sensible and impartial candidates, no matter which political party they associate with.

More than 1100 American rabbis across the country signed a letter warning that the safety of Jews is at risk if Mamdani gets elected. Mamdani has said that Israel only has the right to exist as a Jewish state if it has equal rights for all. Why doesn’t he say the same thing about officially Muslim countries such as Pakistan or Bangladesh where Hindus, Christians and other minorities are subject to frequent human rights abuses? His silence and selective outrage speaks volumes.

A large percentage of Mamdani’s vote base is made up of young, privileged New Yorkers, who want to find fault with the system that has given them this privilege. Mamdani too is a product of this privilege, being the son of acclaimed film director Mira Nair and a Columbia professor, and having attended Bowdoin College, where tuition now costs $71,000 per year. He is far from the common man that he has sold himself to be, and it is tragic that so many New Yorkers bought into his facade.

New York city needs a unifier not a divider, and Mamdani doesn’t seem to fit the bill. Several interfaith leaders, advocacy organizations and policy makers will be closely watching to see what kind of a leader he will turn out to be. We will not be holding our breath!

Summary

In a historic bipartisan move, Representatives Ro Khanna (D-CA) and Thomas Massie (R-KY) led the passing of legislation that compels the release of government files related to Jeffrey Epstein, a rare moment of cross-party unity that fractured support within the MAGA coalition.

Ro Khanna is Indian American, whose district encompasses a large portion of Silicon Valley. He is considering a run for the White House in 2028.

Originally introduced in July, the “Epstein Files Transparency Act” faced stiff resistance as leaders in the GOP, including former President Donald Trump, urged Republicans to abandon the bill. Despite those efforts, the measure secured overwhelming support: a 427–1 vote in the House and unanimous Senate approval.

Khanna framed the effort as part of a broader movement he dubs “economic patriotism,” a call to challenge a powerful elite that many Americans believe have exploited the system with impunity. By working hand-in-hand with figures from across the aisle, including controversial MAGA Republicans, Khanna argues the fight for justice transcends partisan politics.

Read full article on NBC News.

MORE INFORMATION AND APPLICATION

For over 35 years, OCA National Center has hosted one of the longest-running internship programs in the nation’s capital for college students interested in uplifting the Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander community.

The internship program seeks to cultivate future leadership in the next generation of youths by providing opportunities to work in the public sector and learn about issues affecting Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander communities. Based in the nation’s capital, interns will learn to build relationships, meet with legislative officials, and engage in leadership development workshops.

The program has successfully led past interns to become more active on their college campus and increased the presence of the AANHPI community in local, state, and federal governments. OCA intern alumni have become executive directors, legislative staffers, OCA National Executive Council members, and are leaders in the private and public sector.

Selected applicants relocate to Washington, D.C. for the duration of their internship, where they are placed to work full-time at nonprofits, federal agencies, congressional offices, for-profit corporations, and other organizations. Each Friday, interns gather at the OCA National office to discuss issues and engage in workshops dedicated to AANHPI issues. We call these convenings “Sama Sama,” which is Tagalog for “together.” Interns also must attend and staff OCA’s National Convention, an APIA-U: Leadership training, and participate in Advocacy Day, in which they’ll be split into groups to meet with their respective members of Congress to advocate for causes important to the AANHPI community. In addition to these events, OCA interns are provided opportunities to build their professional, personal, and advocacy skills to create compassionate leaders in the AANHPI community.

MORE INFORMATION AND APPLICATION

In a landmark moment for Minnesota and the Asian American and Pacific Islander (AAPI) community, Kaohly Her has been elected as the first Hmong American and first woman mayor of St. Paul, defeating incumbent Melvin Carter in a closely contested ranked-choice election. Her’s victory is not only a political milestone but a deeply personal triumph for many in the Southeast Asian diaspora who have long sought representation in the halls of power.

I had the privilege of meeting Ms. Her on two powerful occasions that underscored her commitment to justice and community. The first was at the MN8 press conference, where she spoke with conviction as a state representative against ICE’s deportation of Southeast Asian residents—many of whom had served sentences for crimes committed as minors and had since been rehabilitated. Her words were a rallying cry for compassion and reform: “We must recognize the humanity of these individuals and the communities they belong to. Justice must include redemption.”

The second encounter was at the Karen Community Annual Gala, where she made her first public appearance as mayor-elect. Her presence at the event was a meaningful gesture of solidarity with one of the lesser-known Southeast Asian ethnic groups. It was heartening to see her embrace the diversity within our AAPI communities and uplift voices that are often overlooked.

Kaohly Her born in 1973 in Laos. Her father worked for the U.S. consulate and her grandfather fought alongside the U.S. Army and CIA in the Laotian Civial War. She immigrated to the U.S. as a Hmong refugee at age four and grew up in Appleton WI. She attended the University of Wisconsin, Madison, graduating with a Bachelor of Business Administration; the University of St. Thomas, studying education leadership; and Northeastern University, graduating with a Master of Business Administration in international management.

Capturing a moment of pride and unity with Dr. SK Lo (center) and Mayor-Elect Kaohly Her (right) at the Karen Community Annual Gala

Her’s mayoral campaign was a testament to grassroots organizing and voter engagement. Despite entering the race just three months before Election Day, she galvanized support through relentless door-knocking and a message that resonated with residents seeking change. While ranked-choice voting played a pivotal role in her win, it has sparked debate about its fairness and accessibility. Nonetheless, Her’s election demonstrates the power of inclusive politics and the importance of representation.

As we celebrate this historic achievement, let us also reflect on the journey that brought us here, from refugee resettlement to civic leadership. Kaohly Her’s rise is a beacon of hope for future generations of AAPI leaders.

Watch Kaohly Her’s Acceptance Speech

Khalsa, a longtime Norwich resident, immigrated to the United States as a child. His family ran a neighborhood convenience store where he often worked alongside his parents. After earning a political science degree from the University of Connecticut, he returned to Norwich and became active in civic affairs, later serving on the Norwich City Council, Planning Commission, and leading several community engagement initiatives.

His mayoral campaign began with relatively modest expectations, but it grew steadily as Khalsa expanded his presence across the city. His strategy relied heavily on direct voter contact: neighborhood canvasses, multilingual outreach events, and public listening sessions held in each of Norwich’s major districts. Campaign aides said the intent was to “meet residents where they are” and demonstrate a commitment to transparency early on.

Khalsa’s platform focused on downtown revitalization, youth support services, and climate resilience. He pledged to invest in affordable housing and small-business development, particularly in underserved areas. He also emphasized the need for expanded mental health resources in local schools, citing what he called “rising pressures on young people that the city cannot afford to ignore.”

Another key proposal centered on rethinking emergency response. Khalsa advocated forming a Crisis Response Team composed of trained mental-health professionals to handle nonviolent calls — a model gaining traction nationwide. His infrastructure plans, including solar retrofits for public buildings and improvements to stormwater systems, drew both praise from environmental groups and scrutiny from residents concerned about long-term costs.

Opposition to Khalsa’s campaign largely centered on fiscal concerns and questions about the feasibility of his green initiatives. Nevertheless, voter turnout surged in several precincts that historically saw low participation, a shift that analysts attribute in part to Khalsa’s targeted outreach efforts.

When final results were announced Tuesday night, Khalsa secured a decisive margin. In his victory speech outside City Hall, he thanked supporters and emphasized the collective nature of the campaign. “This election was never about one person,” he said. “It was about building a city that reflects all of its residents and prepares for the future with clarity and compassion.”

Reaction across Norwich has been largely positive. Community leaders praised Khalsa’s longstanding involvement in local affairs, while younger voters said they were drawn to his focus on mental health and economic opportunity. At the Sikh gurdwara where Khalsa’s family worships, members described the win as “a milestone for visibility,” though they echoed his message that his administration will serve the entire city.

Khalsa will take office in January, inheriting a municipal budget that analysts say will require careful navigation. But for many supporters, his election represents both a symbolic and practical shift. As one downtown business owner put it, “He knows the community, he listens, and he shows up. That’s what people responded to.”

New York City has witnessed a landmark political shift with the election of Zohran Mamdani as its mayor. This historic event not only marks a significant advancement in representation but also sets the stage for progressive change in America’s most prominent city.

Zohran Mamdani, the son of acclaimed film producer Mira Nair and Columbia University Professor Mahmood Mamdani, emerged victorious in the mayoral race, securing the highest office in New York City. His win has been described as both historic and surprising, given the city’s political landscape and the diversity of candidates. At 34 years old, Mamdani will be the youngest mayor to serve New York City since 1892, and he stands as the first Muslim and South Asian individual to hold this office.

Mamdani ran as a democratic socialist and state assemblymember representing Queens. He triumphed over former New York Governor Andrew Cuomo, who ran as an Independent with substantial backing from established interests and large donors, as well as Republican candidate Curtis Sliwa. Mamdani secured approximately 50.4% of the vote, while Cuomo received 41.3%, and Sliwa garnered 7.5%.

The central themes of Mamdani’s campaign were affordability and social justice. His proposed policies included a rent freeze, city-operated grocery stores, universal childcare, and free bus services, all aimed at supporting marginalized and working-class communities. The election saw an unprecedented voter turnout, with over two million New Yorkers casting ballots—nearly double the participation in the previous mayoral race.

Challenges and Transition Team

Mamdani, set to be sworn in on January 1, 2026, recognizes the major challenges in meeting his campaign promises. During his campaign for office, he faced criticism and negative reactions from individuals across the political spectrum. Nonetheless, Mamdani remains optimistic, supported by millions of volunteers and an all-female transition team. The team is led by executive director Elana Leopold, with co-chairs Maria Torres-Springer, a Filipino American expert in housing and economic development, Lina Khan, Grace Bonilla, and Melanie Hartzog.

Mamdani’s victory was part of a broader success for Democrats nationwide. In gubernatorial races, Mikie Sherrill and Abigail Spanberger won in New Jersey and Virginia, respectively, both running on their national security credentials as former moderate Democrat members of Congress. Additionally, Swaranjit Singh Khalsa made history as the first Sikh American elected mayor of Norwich, Connecticut, further increasing South Asian representation in American politics.

In the letter, Suozzi writes that “While I strongly support your mission to restore professionalism and uniformity, these remarks have raised questions among otherwise highly motivated Americans whose faith or medical conditions require the maintenance of facial hair. For Sikhs, serving one’s nation is a sacred duty, an embodiment of the Sant-Sipahi (saint- soldier) ideal that blends faith and service. The Sikh religion requires adherents to maintain uncut hair and beards as a symbol of devotion and equality before God. Sikhs have courageously fought alongside American troops for generations, including in both World Wars.”

So far, Secretary Hegseth has not publicly responded to Congressman Suozzi’s letter.

Congressman Suozzi also recently introduced the Bipartisan Indian American Heritage Resolution to celebrate the rich history and contributions of the Indian American community on Long Island and across the nation.

The resolution, led alongside Republican Congresswoman Young Kim (R-CA), acknowledges the strong people-to-people ties between the United States and India, recognizes the accomplishments of Indian Americans and their contributions to the strength of America, and condemns acts of hate, discrimination, and violence against Indian Americans and the broader South Asian community, including those targeted for their Hindu, Sikh, Jain, Muslim, or other religious or cultural identity.

“I have a large and vibrant Indian American community in my district,” Suozzi said. “This resolution helps honor the rich history and profound influence that generations of this community in my district, not to mention the 5.2 Indian Americans in the U.S., have had throughout the country.”

“Indian Americans are an integral part of our community in Southern California and across the United States. Their success stories reflect the very best of the American Dream,” said Rep. Young Kim. “I’m proud to stand with the Indian American community as we introduce this resolution just in time for Diwali—a moment to honor their achievements and the values that light the way for our nation.”

This resolution was introduced to mark the celebration of Diwali, the “Festival of Lights,” observed by Hindus, Jains, Sikhs, and some Buddhists.

Related Articles

New Hegseth Shaving Rules for Military Appear to Target Religious Exemptions, Task & Purpose, October 2, 2025

Hegseth’s War on Military “Beardos” Stirs Religious, Health Concerns, Axios, October 2, 2025

Historic Victory in Japanese Politics

Sanae Takaichi made history by challenging four male contenders in the parliamentary elections, ultimately winning the vote to become Japan’s first female prime minister and the leader of the Liberal Democratic Party. Her election marks a significant milestone, shattering longstanding gender barriers within the nation’s political landscape.

This achievement is both a symbol of progress and a testament to the evolving dynamics of Japanese society, which faces a host of pressing challenges, including escalating costs of living, a disenchanted populace, an aging population, a declining birth rate resulting in labor shortages, and a stagnant economy. These domestic issues are compounded by intense geopolitical rivalries with neighboring countries, as Japan competes for economic and diplomatic supremacy.

Born in 1961 in Nara Prefecture, Takaichi is recognized as a conservative politician and has expressed admiration for Margaret Thatcher, the former British prime minister known as “the iron lady.” Despite having no political lineage—her mother being a police officer and her father an office worker—Takaichi harbored a strong ambition to enter politics from an early age. Her determination paid off on her third attempt, culminating in her long-sought victory. This success has solidified her place in history as a trailblazer for women in Japanese leadership.

Political Stance – an Enigma

Takaichi’s rise to power highlights certain paradoxes in her political stance. While her leadership is hailed as a step forward for women, she has opposed legislation that would allow married women to retain their maiden names, arguing that such changes undermine Japanese tradition. Additionally, she stands against same-sex marriage. These positions present an intriguing contrast: on one hand, she operates on the global stage alongside progressive nations that champion women’s rights, yet on the other, she holds views that reflect a more traditional perspective on gender roles in Japanese society.

During her leadership campaign, Takaichi adopted a more conciliatory tone regarding the labor shortage crisis. She acknowledged the challenges faced by working women, particularly around childcare. To address these she has proposed making babysitter fees partially tax-deductible and offering corporate tax incentives to companies that provide in-house childcare services.

Before embarking on her political career, Takaichi worked briefly as a television host. In her youth, she played the piano and participated in bands, nurturing a fondness for heavy metal music. She has held several senior government positions, including minister for economic security, state minister for trade and industry, and an unprecedented tenure as minister for internal affairs and communications. Her varied career reflects a blend of remarkable traits and diverse experiences.

Key Priorities as Prime Minister

At her first press conference as prime minister on October 21, 2025, Takaichi outlined her primary goals for her administration. She emphasized the need to tackle rising inflation and announced plans to suspend the provisional gasoline tax rate. Her agenda includes fostering public-private collaboration to boost investment in economic, energy, and food security, expanding local government grants for small and medium-sized businesses, and increasing investments in advanced technologies such as artificial intelligence and semiconductors.

Takaichi, like her fellow candidates in the 2025 Liberal Democratic Party leadership race, has adopted a hard-liner approach to immigration. During her campaign, she capitalized on a surge of anti-immigrant sentiment, advocating for stricter immigration controls and employing anti-immigration rhetoric.

International Engagements and Foreign Policy

Prime Minister Takaichi is scheduled to travel to Malaysia for a major regional summit, marking her first overseas trip since taking office. During her three-day visit to Kuala Lumpur, she will meet with leaders of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) and is expected to promote a free and open Indo-Pacific region as a cornerstone of her foreign policy. She will also engage in bilateral meetings, including discussions with Malaysian Prime Minister and current ASEAN chair Anwar Ibrahim. Following her trip to Malaysia, Takaichi will host U.S. President Donald Trump in Tokyo, further underscoring her role in international diplomacy.