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Falguni Pandya honored with 'Women of Excellence Award’ by Essex County Democratic Committee
The Indian-American emphasized the importance of women's empowerment and cultural heritage in her acceptance speech.
Falguni Pandya received an award from Jacqueline Jones (L), and addressed the audience in an acceptance speech (R). / Courtesy Photos
Indian-American community leader Falguni Pandya was recently honored with the ‘Women of Excellence Award’ by the Essex County Democratic Committee in West Orange, New Jersey.
The event was hosted by Jacqueline Jones, wife of New Jersey and Essex County Democratic Party chair Leroy Jones, Jr. where Pandya was felicitated alongside Sue Vezza and Khalifah Shabazz at the Wilshire Grand Hotel.
Assemblywoman and former Livingston Township Council member Rosy Bagolie, Congresswoman Mikie Sherrill and present Livingston Township Council members Ketan Bhuptani and Shawn Klein were in attendance.
“We honor you for your selfless contributions and dedicated service to the youth as you instill heritage pride. Thank you for creating a world enriched with love, wisdom and collective well-being. You inspire all of us to be guided by kindness, compassion, faith and civic engagement,” read the plaque honoring Pandya.
In her acceptance speech, Pandya emphasized the importance of empowering women and girls, citing ancient Hindu principles such as Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam (the world is one family) and Yatra Naryastu Pujyante, Ramante Tatra Devataha (where women are honored, divinity blossoms).
Pandya also lauded chairman Jones for helping set “an exemplary track record of celebrating diversity and uplifting people of all backgrounds.”
“It is heartening to see our elected officials supporting our community leaders and encouraging them to make a difference,” she said in her speech.
Talking about growing up in a goddess culture and around an "intelligent and fierce" grandmother, Pandya stressed the need for women to recognize their inner strength, support each other, complement masculine forces while also acknowledging the importance of male allies.
Pandya was earlier appointed by New Jersey Governor Phil Murphy to the NJ-India Commission and the Asian American and Pacific Islander (AAPI) Commission where she advocates for the rights and representation of Asian American and Pacific Islander communities.
She additionally serves as a Hindu Clergy representative in the Livingston Interfaith Clergy Association while leading NJ Dems Hindu Caucus as a Co-chair.
Pandya was felicitated alongside Sue Vezza and Khalifah Shabazz at the Wilshire Grand Hotel. /
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