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42nd Annual India Day Parade NYC - Bullied/Targeted for peaceful inclusion of Ram mandir float
In this letter, Ankur Vaidya urges the entire Hindu community to peacefully yet resolutely oppose the bigotry surronding the inclusion of the Ram Mandir float in the parade.
Dear Editor,
As a five-decade-old, 100% volunteer-run non-profit, we find ourselves under heavy scrutiny for organizing a peaceful community celebration that our dedicated volunteers have worked tirelessly to prepare. This malicious and hate-filled scrutiny, spread on social media, has resulted in the loss of sponsorships—the lifeblood of our event—and in fear-mongering, causing law-abiding citizens to worry about potential unruly conduct due to the hateful messages circulating online.
Ironically, the theme for this year, set long before the inclusion of the Ram Mandir float was decided, was "Vasudev Kutumbakam," which translates to "the world is one family." For over four decades, the parade has been a celebration of community, growing due to its display of inclusion and diversity, allowing participants to display their expressions respectfully and peacefully without diminishing or disrespecting others. Despite our longstanding tradition of celebrating diversity, we are now the target of communal hate and bigotry.
Efforts are being made to dissuade the Mayor's and Governor's offices from attending or supporting the celebration, and harmful rhetoric is being spread on social media platforms. Our inclusion of a float that celebrates inauguration of a sacred landmark, significant to hundreds of millions of Hindus has been insulted by derogatory name calling and the officials and the mainstream is radio silent. I respectfully ask, would such name-calling be tolerated if directed at any other community's place of worship? The answer is unequivocally no.
I urge the entire Hindu community to peacefully yet resolutely oppose the bigotry displayed by distorting facts, misleading the public, and creating a hateful distraction for reasons unknown. As we celebrate what we consider a vital aspect of our faith through the celebration of this landmark, we unequivocally reject violence and hate in any form, including any damage to any religion's place of worship. We stand for peaceful coexistence and encourage everyone to embrace this value.
Let us avail ourselves of the opportunities this great nation, the United States of America, has generously provided—cherish the freedom to peacefully express ourselves, practice our religion, and uphold the value of mutual respect. We invite you to join us in a celebration that fosters peaceful harmony and coexistence among diverse cultures, religions, genders, and more. Let us embody the values championed by Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and be recognized by the content of our character, not by the color of our skin or the faith we follow.
A proud American from the proud origins of my native motherland of India who proudly practices the Hindu faith while loving, caring and being respectful towards all religions and faith.
Ankur Vaidya
FIA Chairman
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