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Krishnamoorthi proposes designating January as Tamil heritage month
The initiative recognizes Tamil, one of the world’s oldest languages spoken by over 80 million people worldwide, including 360,000 Americans.
Rep. Raja Krishnamoorthi represents the 8th Congressional district of Illinois. / Facebook
Congressman Raja Krishnamoorthi (D-IL) introduced a bipartisan resolution on Jan.14 to designate January as Tamil Language and Heritage Month in the United States. The initiative recognizes Tamil, one of the world’s oldest languages spoken by over 80 million people worldwide, including 360,000 Americans.
The resolution coincides with Pongal, a major Tamil festival celebrated in mid-January, which emphasizes gratitude, prosperity, and community celebrations among Tamil families and friends.
“As a Tamil American, I am proud to introduce this bipartisan resolution honoring the Tamil language, heritage, and culture here at home in the United States and around the world,” said Congressman Krishnamoorthi.
For the 360,000 Tamil Americans living in the U.S. today, January is a uniquely special time thanks to the festival of Pongal. I was proud to introduce my bipartisan resolution to designate January in honor of the Tamil language and heritage. pic.twitter.com/dcftcRqrGC
— Congressman Raja Krishnamoorthi (@CongressmanRaja) January 14, 2025
He added, “America is a mosaic of different languages, cultures, ideas, and traditions, and it is my sincere hope that this resolution will shine a light on the rich and distinct culture, as well as the incredible achievements, of the more than 350,000 Tamil Americans today. I encourage my colleagues in Congress to swiftly take up this resolution to recognize the impact Tamil Americans have in our communities.”
Tamil organizations across the country welcomed the resolution. Tamil Americans United PAC praised the legislation, stating, “Tamil Americans United PAC wholeheartedly welcomes and deeply appreciates Representative Raja Krishnamoorthi and the members of Congress for introducing this significant legislation, which highlights the rich history of the ancient Tamil people and their invaluable contributions to the modern world. We urge Tamil Americans to actively and effectively engage in efforts to ensure the successful passage of this legislation in the United States Congress.”
The Federation of Tamil Sangams of North America (FeTNA) echoed the sentiment, saying, “As proud Tamil Americans, we strongly support Rep. Krishnamoorthi’s resolution to create a Tamil Language and Heritage Month. Tamils have much to contribute to this dear country we call our home, and showcasing our history, language, and culture will allow us to meaningfully share what we have with our fellow citizens.”
The U.S. Tamil Action Group (USTAG) also commended the effort, stating, “We thank Rep. Krishnamoorthi for spearheading the effort to designate January as Tamil Language and Heritage Month and urge the U.S. Congress to pass this resolution with all due speed. Tamil Americans cherish our rich and ancient language, traditions, and culture and know that we have much to contribute to America's own unique and vibrant patchwork of traditions.”
People for Equality and Relief in Lanka (PEARL) expressed their support as well, noting, “PEARL appreciates the leadership of Congressman Krishnamoorthi on this resolution, which celebrates the invaluable contributions of the Tamil community to the United States across generations. The resolution highlights the extensive history and cultural richness of the Tamil people. Recognizing Tamil Heritage Month reinforces the incredible diversity that defines and strengthens American society.”
Congressman Krishnamoorthi was joined in introducing the resolution by a bipartisan group of lawmakers, including Reps. Nicole Malliotakis (R-NY), Shri Thanedar (D-MI), Ro Khanna (D-CA), Suhas Subramanyam (D-VA), Pramila Jayapal (D-WA), Ami Bera (D-CA), Ilhan Omar (D-MN), Yvette Clarke (D-NY), Sara Jacobs (D-CA), Deborah Ross (D-NC), Danny Davis (D-IL), Dina Titus (D-NV), Don Davis (D-NC), and Summer Lee (D-PA).
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