India Association of Minnesota

July 2024 Newsletter

51 Years Supporting the Indian Community

To our Newsletter Readers: If you do not see our sponsor logos, you have not reached the end of the newsletter. Immediately below the last article on the left side, you will see "View entire message".

 Please click on it. 

IAM News & Events

IndiaFest 2024

The much-anticipated annual IndiaFest is a splendid opportunity to immerse yourself in the wonders of India's rich heritage, captivating traditions, and colorful diversity.

Join IAM for a day of festivity and joy – and it's free! IndiaFest is an event for everyone, all Minnesotans are welcome to celebrate the vibrant spirit of India. Whether you're familiar with Indian culture or curious to learn more, there's something for everyone to enjoy.

Where: Minnesota State Capitol Grounds 

When: Saturday, August 17th, 2024

Time: 11.00 AM - 9 PM

Participate In IndiaFest 2024



We would love to see you again at IndiaFest this year. Please reserve your spot in the individual area of interest now. There are a limited number of spaces available, so act quickly. Like every year, we would like your partnership in the following areas.

- Exhibit booths and Parade Participation - Please register to secure your exhibit booth and parade participation. Registration deadline date: July 7th, 2024 - Registration Link

- Cultural events participation - Please register your group. Registration deadline date: July 7th, 2024, Registration Link

- Volunteers - Please register to be a volunteer at IndiaFest. Registration deadline date: July 31st, 2024. Registration Link.

-Food Vendors - Restaurants and caterers are invited to register their business at the IndiaFest by July 10th,2024. Registration link

- Kids Games & Entertainment

- Bazaar - Small businesses, please register if interested in setting up a booth to demonstrate your offering or service to a broader community. Application deadline date: July 7th, 2024, Registration Link

- Scholarship & Award Nomination. High school students are encouraged to apply. Application deadline date: July 15th, 2024 Registration Link

11th Annual IAM Golf Tournament

Save the Date

India Association of Minnesota will be hosting the 11th Annual IAM Golf Tournament and we are looking forward to seeing you there.

Mark your calendars now for September 7, 2024!

Watch for details in the August newsletter and on the IAM website.

Consular Camp

India Association of Minnesota in collaboration with the Consulate General of India held a Consular Camp on Saturday, June 15, 2024. The Consulate’s outsourced agency M/s VFS also joined the camp. 

Around 350 community members availed themselves of the services provided. Applications for OCI, Passports and Renunciation Certificates were accepted and miscellaneous consular services were rendered. In addition, many others were able to get questions answered.

IAM thanks Vice Consuls Shri E.T. Chhangte, Shri Sanjay K. Sharma, Shri Jitender Khatri, Shri Manendra Kumar and Consul Vinod Gautam, as well as Jeanetta Wells, Kamal Kaur, Annie John and Vairamani Gopal from VFS for providing these valuable services to the Minnesota Indian Community.

A special thanks to community partners TCTA, SEWA and MATA. Thank you also to World Wide Travel, Pratat Bhosale with State Farm and Abdul Hamza for sponsoring the Consular Camp.

The IAM team was led by Nidhi Methi. IAM team members were President Meena Bharti, Vice President Srividya Vaidyanathan, Secretary Mangala Acharya, Treasurer Uma Venkat, Hina Kapoor, Ramla Hasalani, Sunitha Pillai, Analabha Dutta, Shonit Jain, Hasmulk Patel, Vipasha Verma and intern Anand Seemukurthy. IAM TAC chair Sreeni Checka, Suyash Jain and past president Raj Menon were in attendance during the event.

IAM Participating in the Community

Flint Hills

The annual Flint Hills Family Festival highlights performance artists from around the world for young audiences and their families. Between performances, festival-goers can enjoy activities in the surrounding parks, which include free art-making activities with our Festival Partners. This year, the festival ran from May 29 to June 1. IAM has been a cherished participant for numerous years, and this year IAM participated on June 1, 2024.

The IAM team pictured at right: TAC member Suyash Jain, Vice President Srividya Vaidyanathan,Treasurer Uma Venkat and Board members Hetal Patel and Sunitha Pillai. The IAM team was led by Hina Kapoor.Not pictured Ram Rajagopalan

IAM served as a vibrant gateway to Indian culture for all attendees. Participants had the opportunity to explore traditional festivals, rich culture, and facts about India. They channeled their creativity through Mandala art coloring and clay lamp painting, which left them engrossed for quite some time. The bookmark name writing in Hindi was another engaging activity. Kids and adults were equally involved in mentally stimulating games like Carrom board and chess, which originate from India.

Festival-goers also enjoyed dressing up in Indian attire; little girls felt like princesses in Indian lehengas, and elders enjoyed wearing sarees and kurtas. Girls loved wearing bangles and putting bindis on. It was a great opportunity for us to promote the upcoming IndiaFest to people who were excited to learn about how they can see India in a Day and would like to visit.

Overall, it was a great experience and we're so glad for our shared values in creating amazing experiences for all kids and families.

Asian Fair

The second annual Twin Cities West Metro Asian Fair, held at Plymouth Hilde Performance Center on June 1, 2024 was a delightful celebration of the diverse Asian community. IAM was represented at the event by numerous Board members and volunteers, led by Analabha Dutta. IAM's booth promoted the cultural heritage of India, encouraged civic engagement and forged connections to the wider Asian community. The Asian Fair brings together people of all backgrounds and ages to learn, appreciate and celebrate the beauty of Asian culture. Cultural displays from over 14 Asian countries, delicious food, local exhibitors, activities and games for families, music and dance performances made for a beautiful array of Asian cultures for all to enjoy. IAM proudly supported the celebration of our shared Asian heritage.

IAM volunteers: Analabha Dutta, Ramla Hasanali, Shruti Joshi, Vipasha Verma and Vidya Ramraj. IAM attendees: Kiran Bandi, Ram Gada, Dr. Dash, Tanwi Prigge, Fazel Harris, Sandeep Methi and Nidhi Methi.

Minneapolis Institute of Art (MIA)

IAM team members attended a reception and viewing of the exhibit The Shape of Time: Korean Art after 1989, on Thursday evening, May 30th. It featured artists of Korean descent who experienced new freedoms ushered in by democracy. Virajita Singh, MIA Chief Inclusion & Diversity Officer and Indian community member hosted the evening in partnership with CAPM. During the reception, the guest enjoyed Korean appetizers. A guided viewing of the exhibit was done by MIA onsite curator, Leslie xxxx.

IAM and Indian community members were Ram Gada, Tanwi Prigge, Shruti Joshi and Alice Northrup. Anjuli Misra Cameron, Aishwarya Menon and Dasharath Yata.

artsmia.org

Carnatic Jazz Concert

IAM appreciates Hindu Society of Minnesota's (HSMN) efforts to promote and preserve India's rich cultural heritage through innovative cultural programming such as on display on June 2nd at Nath auditorium. The Carnatic Jazz Fusion Concert was a vibrant performance by young musicians from across North America blending the classical sounds of Carnatic music with that of western percussion and jazz influences. In attendance from IAM and to lend support were Godan Nambudiripad , Ram Gada, Shruti Joshi, Sanjay Terakanambi and Ram Rajagopalan. 

IAM Membership

India Association of Minnesota invites you to become a sustaining member of the organization. As the Indian population in Minnesota increases, it is more important than ever that the community be involved in the activities of IAM as it represents our common interests.

The benefits are many, including participation in the annual election of IAM officers and board members, running for a seat on the board or becoming a part of the IAM committees (Government Relations, Cultural, History and SAARI).

For more information send an email to contact@iamn.org and an IAM board member will contact you. To become an IAM member Click Here or click on the QR code.

Welcome to new IAM members

Upcoming IAM Calendar of Events

Event/Date/Venue

• IAM Picnic - August
• Cricket Tournament (Recommended new event), TBD
• Indiafest 2024 - August 17th, Minnesota State Capitol grounds
• IAM Golf Tournament - September 7th
• NonViolence Day - Oct 5th
• Pink Garba Women's Health event - October TBD
• Dhanyawaad - December TBD

Watch for coming events in future newsletters, on Facebook and the IAM website www.iamn.org.

Government Relations & Civic Engagement

Election 2024



DID YOU KNOW?

Early Voting by Mail and In-Person

• Minnesota allows any eligible voter to vote early by mail or in person without needing to provide a reason. You can still vote even if you can’t make it to the polls on Election Day. Early voting for the 2024 elections has started as of June 28

Same-Day Voter Registration

• Voters can register to vote on Election Day at their polling place with necessary proof of residence.

Curbside Voting

Voters who are unable to leave their vehicle can request that an election judge bring a ballot to them in their car.

Right to Request Assistance in Voting

• Voters with disabilities or language barriers have the right to ask for help from a person of their choice, except for their employer, a union representative, or a candidate on the ballot.

 Language Assistance

• Minnesota provides election materials in multiple languages and offers language assistance at polling places to help non-English speaking voters. 

Absentee Voting for Military and Overseas Voters

• Minnesota provides absentee voting options for military personnel and U.S. citizens living abroad.

Right to Time Off Work to Vote

• Voters have the right to take time off work to vote without losing pay or having to use personal leave.

Voter Privacy and Security

• Voters have the right to cast their ballot in private and have it counted accurately.

Voting Rights for Felons

As of 2023, individuals convicted of a felony in Minnesota regain their right to vote once they are no longer incarcerated, even if they are on probation or parole.

More information at: https://www.sos.state.mn.us/elections-voting/other-ways-to-vote/ 

Your vote matters!

Economic Summit for Asian Americans

This is an opportunity to interact with federal officials on business and community topics in a smaller setting with a focus on Asian American related topics.

Please join the White House Initiative on Asian Americans, Native Hawaiians, and Pacific Islanders, federal agencies, and local leaders for the seventh in a series of summits to connect AA and NHPI community members directly with federal leaders and resources.

For more information and to register for the July 2 Economic Summit Click Here

CAAL Legislative Session Debrief

On June 25, 2024, the Coalition of Asian American Leaders (CAAL) hosted a 2024 legislative session debrief for community members. IAM, represented by Board member and Government Relations co-chair Shruti Joshi, attended the event in show of support of the shared priorities of our Asian community.

The program included a presentation on CAAL's activities and legislative achievements during the 2024 session, panel discussions with women entrepreneurs Eve and Laura and with Minnesota legislators present at the event. Senator Champion, Senator Hawj, Rep Her, Rep. Vang, Rep. Sencer-Mura, Rep. Feist and Rep. Lee spoke about how they use the feedback from the community to inform the bills they author in the legislature and their plans for the next session.

Spotlight

Veena Iyer

Appointed Judge for Second Judicial District

Veena Iyer, executive director of the Immigrant Law Center of Minnesota (ILCM), has been appointed by Governor Walz as one of two new judges to the Second Judicial District, which covers Ramsey County. Iyer will remain at ILCM for several weeks to complete her transition before joining the bench. 

Iyer says: “This is truly bittersweet. I will miss ILCM, a community like no other in its tenacity, resilience, creativity, empathy, and compassion. However, I am honored that Governor Walz has entrusted me to serve the residents of Ramsey County and to ensure justice for all. As the child of immigrants, it has been the honor of a lifetime to serve as the Executive Director of the Immigrant Law Center of Minnesota, and I am proud of all we have done together to support immigrant and refugee families across Minnesota and North Dakota.”   

In the press release announcing the appointment, Walz said: 

“I am honored to appoint Veena Iyer to the Ramsey County bench. Her diverse practice background and understanding of the impact that our justice system has on the many communities it serves gives me the confidence that she will be a fair and balanced judge.”  

“It is exciting to see Veena take this next step in her professional career. The Board is proud of how ILCM has thrived under her leadership, and we look forward to seeing her serve the people of Minnesota as a judge. I have the utmost confidence that ILCM’s interim leadership and excellent staff will continue to carry out our mission, serving immigrants with grace, diligence, expertise, and passion. We are poised to navigate this transition smoothly,” reflected Board Chair, Sarah Radosevich. 

India Association of Minnesota congratualtes Veena Iyer on this appointment.

Reprinted from Immigrant Law Center of Minnesota news. To read article Click Here.

Govenor Walz press release Read Here

Dasharath Yata

Minnesota Governor names Indian American to Community Council on Inclusion and Equity

Dr. Dasharath Yata has been appointed by Minnesota Governor Tim Walz to be an acting member on the Governor’s Community Council on Inclusion and Equity. The Governor’s Community Council on Inclusion and Equity will advise and collaborate with the One Minnesota Council and the Governor's Office of Equity, Opportunity, and Accessibility to ensure the implementation of equitable practices for the State of Minnesota to address disparities, inequities, and systemic racism in Minnesota communities.

Dr. Dasharath Yata serves as Executive Co-Director of SEWA-AIFW, a nonprofit organization dedicated to enhancing the well-being of vulnerable South Asian-Indian families in Minnesota. Since its inception in 2004, SEWA-AIFW has provided comprehensive support, including crisis intervention, outreach services, research, and volunteer training, impacting families in the state.

The organization's wellness programs encompass a 24-hour crisis line, legal and housing assistance, women empowerment, and health clinics offering screenings and education. As a Certified Health First Aid Certificate holder, Dr. Yata has spearheaded mental health initiatives, breaking down barriers and promoting self-development.

He oversees the SEWA Health Initiative programs, including mental health and suicide

prevention in the communities, and has successfully implemented innovative programs.

Dr. Yata also leads community outreach efforts, collaborating with 35 organizations to provide culturally sensitive services, and spearheads civic engagement initiatives, focusing on equality, diversity, and addressing racism in the communities.



Additionally, he has participated in legislative efforts, advocating for temporary housing, data disaggregation, and mental health support. His dedication has been recognized with numerous awards from various organizations for his outstanding community work.

Originally from Telangana, India, Dr. Yata moved to the US in 2011, bringing his expertise as a faculty member to his current role. Under his leadership, SEWA-AIFW continues to flourish, making a positive impact in the lives of many. On a personal note, Dr. Yata is married to Padma Yata, an IT professional, and they have two college-aged children.

India Association of Minnesota congratulates Dasharath Yata on this appointment.

Saint Paul City Council recognized

Jit Bhatia of Maharajas

Recognizing Kawaljit Bhatia for his 38 years of running a successful business in the City of Saint Paul.

WHEREAS, Kawaljit Bhatia, also known as "Jit", has owned a retail business in Saint Paul since 1984; and

WHEREAS, Jit was born June 11, 1949 in Kanpur, India and studied at Allen Memorial School in Uttar Pardesh in 1959 where he had a chance to meet the Dali Lama when he was escaping from the Chinese; and

WHEREAS, after graduating from college in India, he traveled to Europe in 1970 where Jit met someone from Hibbing, Minnesota who encouraged him to emigrate to Minnesota; and

WHEREAS, Jit arrived in Minneapolis on July 4, 1970 to attend the University of Saint Thomas in Saint Paul; and

WHEREAS, Jit purchased an historic building at 205 West 7th Street and moved Maharaja's International from downtown to that location;

Now Therefore BE IT RESOLVED, that the Saint Paul City Council recognize Kawaljit Bhatia for his 38 yeaars of running a successful business a civic leadership in the City of Saint Paul. Mr. Bhatia was formerly recognized by the Minnesota State Legislature.

IAM congratulates Jit Bhatia on receiving this recognition.

IAM Team

Shivangi Pandey

IAM Associate board member, Shivangi Pandey was chosen to be the 2024 Student Speaker for the University of Minnesota School of Mechanical Engineering graduation ceremony. She was selected for her contributions to the department and academics. Shivangi is in the Integrated Master’s program, attaining her undergraduate degree in three years and will complete her Master's Degree dring her fourth year.

An excerpt from her speech The Paradox of Time: "We’ve learned that while we often think we have all the time in the world, it’s the moments we seize spontaneously, the risks we take without hesitation, that often lead to our most treasured memories and our greatest growth.

Today, as we stand on the idea of what’s next, it’s worth pondering the paradox of time. How will we use the endless days that seem to lay before us? And how will we make every waking moment count? As engineers, thinkers, and dreamers, we are equipped to develop not just structures, systems, and devices, but our very lives, measuring them not in the quantity of days but in the quality of our experiences and achievements. We’ve spent our college years not just studying and doing homework, but also figuring out how to build our own paths in life."

IAM congratulates Shivangi on her graduation and her dedication and contributions to IAM and the community.

AshaUSA

AshaUSA is proud to be collaborating with the NAMI national organization on creating awareness about mental health issues.

Chai & Chat Session 2 Empowering South Asians: Culturally Sensitive Approaches to Mental Wellness

What is it? 

The National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) and Asha USA are hosting community conversations on mental wellness! This space is for, by, and about South Asians to share what mental wellness means to us and learn about ways we can support well-being among ourselves and each other. This conversation will be a discussion with a South Asian mental health professional.

  When is it? 

 Chai & Chat conversations will be held over Zoom on July 20th (Saturday) from 4-5:30pm CST  

  To participate, you must be 

• Of South Asian descent (including ancestry from India, Pakistan, Bangladesh, Nepal, Sri Lanka, Bhutan, and Maldives, and Indo-Caribbean individuals from countries including Guyana, Jamaica, Suriname, and Trinidad & Tobago) 
• Over 18 years old  

It is a free session but you must register.

Please register at this link: Chai & Chat Registration - Empowering South Asians: Culturally Sensitive Approaches to Mental Wellness (google.com) 

 If you have any questions, please contact Charu Aggarwal at caggarwal@nami.org or ashausa2014@gmail.com 

 Register by July 14th!  

www.AshaUSA.org 

BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir

It is with immense joy and anticipation that BAPS extends a heartfelt invitation to you for the historic groundbreaking ceremony of the new 

BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir in Medina. 

Saturday, July 6 starting at 9 am. 

Address: 1432 Hamel Road, Medina, MN 55340

Please RSVP for the event here : RSVP Link for the Event.

This new mandir will serve as a place of worship and act as a center for cultural, social, educational, and community service events helping people connect and foster a sense of belonging.

BAPS requests your presence at this historic and auspicious ceremony along with your generous patronage for the project

Link for Donation: Donate 

Thank you for your continued support and commitment. BAPS will look forward to celebrating this auspicious event together.

Hindu Society of Minnesota

HSMN invites the community to the

Save the Date for Cultural Heritage Day.

Date: Saturday, July 13, 2024

Time: 11:00 - 3:00 pm

To register Click Here

https://www.hindutemplemn.org/

Minnesota Malayalee Association (MMA)

Join MMA for the Annual Summer Picnic 2024 lakeside at Kayaloram a lakeside picnic with food, games, DJ & more!  Enjoy a lakeside picnic with authentic Kerala Food. See the latest All Electric police squad car on display and meet Minnesota Officer of the Year 2022 Sgt Murray. Enjoy Games including volleyball, tug of war, musical chairs, fun games for kids & lucky draw event! MMA is planning a variety of games and entertainment for both kids and adults. Don't miss out! 

Where: Lac Lavon Park, Burnsville

Date: July 20, 2024

Time: 11:00 am - 4:00 pm

To attend: Register Here

*******************

Join Minnesota Malayalee's Association Yuva for a Hike Along the Mississippi River!

All Ages Welcome! (Beginners too! The trail is considered "easy"). Enjoy light snacks and water (provided) and a picturesque hike along the Mississippi River. An optional lunch with the Yuva team at City House in St. Paul is available. Meet the team and connect with others!

Event: Hiking with Yuva

Date: July 13th, 2024

Location: Simon's Ravine Trailhead

Scan the QR code or visit https://forms.gle/vvVN9X3L2KHSdVoJ6

Pangea World Theater

This August, Pangea World Theater is expanding our education programming to middle schoolers, offering three Summer Camps for 4th to 6th graders. 

These camps are rooted in Pangea's belief in creating spaces where a multiplicity of experiences and cultures can enter a space and be creative together. Engaging in theater helps build confidence, community, team-building, and expressions of creativity! 

All camps are also priced on a sliding scale to stay accessible to all families. 

Pangea World Theater

RGK Dance Academy is Thrilled to Announce 'Pursuit of Happiness', a Bollywood Dance Drama at the MN Fringe Festival This Summer! Everyone, Please Save the Dates: August 1, 4, 5, 10, and 11!

Miscellaneous

Independence Day



As we gather to celebrate the birth of our nation, let's take a moment to appreciate the freedoms we cherish and the unity that brings us together. 

Today, we honor the courage and vision of those who fought for our independence and continue to strive for a brighter future.

Wishing everyone a day filled with joy, laughter, and unforgettable memories. Enjoy the fireworks, BBQs, and quality time with loved ones. Let's celebrate our freedom and the American spirit!

Stay Connected with IAM

Visit the IAM Website IAM Facebook Instagram @iamnorg

IAM is on X (twitter) too!

This activity is made possible by the voters of Minnesota through a grant from the Minnesota State Arts Board, thanks to a legislative appropriation from the arts and cultural heritage fund.