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Exhibition celebrates Silicon Valley’s South Asian diaspora
"The 'South Asians in Silicon Valley' program will bring visibility to the lived experiences of South Asians in the wider Bay Area", Mantra Roy said.
SJSU Librarian Mantra Roy checks on one of the exhibit cases that displays cooking utensils used across South Asia. / Photo: Lesley Seacrist/ SJSU
The San Jose State University (SJSU) King Library is set to unveil its latest exhibit, "South Asians in Silicon Valley” on Apr.27.
Curated by Mantra Roy, the SJSU collection strategy librarian, the exhibit will offer an immersive journey into the diverse heritage and traditions of South Asian diaspora, who account for nearly 20 percent of the Bay Area's population and 60 percent of the university's international student population.
"The stories of South Asians are seldom told," remarks India-born Roy."This exhibit is a platform to celebrate our shared heritage and the rich tapestry of our cultural identities."
Join us in celebrating a compelling new initiative @sjsulibrary and in co-building the vision for recording, preserving, & sharing South Asian stories in Silicon Valley. #APIHeritageMonth
— SJSU King Library (@sjsulibrary) April 8, 2024
April 27 | 2-4 PM | 5th floor, AAACNA Studies Center
RSVP: https://t.co/YyA6vPbdrT! pic.twitter.com/JgJCINYtyF
From intricately crafted artifacts to poignant photographs capturing everyday life, the exhibit pieces highlight the resilience and creativity of South Asian communities spanning Afghanistan, Bangladesh, Bhutan, India, Nepal, Pakistan, and Sri Lanka.
Roy emphasized the importance of such exhibits stating. "Through projects like 'South Asians in Silicon Valley,' we aim to create spaces for previously underrepresented stories, fostering a sense of belonging in institutional records."
However, her vision for the exhibit extends beyond mere representation as she hopes for it to serve as a catalyst for education and understanding, both within the SJSU community and among local residents. "The 'South Asians in Silicon Valley' program will bring visibility to the lived experiences of South Asians in the wider Bay Area," she states. "It's about acknowledgment, celebration, and the power of culture to unite and inspire."
Dr. Mary Papazian, president of San Jose State University, lauded the first-of-its-kind initiative, stating, "Projects like this enrich our understanding of the diverse communities that make up Silicon Valley, enhancing our collective knowledge and cultural appreciation."
Part of a larger “South Asians in Silicon Valley” program, the exhibition will be followed by a music program,‘Sounds of South Asia’, a half-day event that will invite local musicians from the seven countries to perform the musical traditions and instruments in August 2024.
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