WASHINGTON (Diya TV) — In a historic moment Tuesday, four Indian-American members of the U.S. House of Representatives were officially sworn in to the 115th Congress, a moment that instantly quadrupled the community’s presence in the Chamber.
California Representatives Ami Bera and Ro Khanna, Washington state Rep. Pramila Jayapal and Illinois Rep. Raja Krishnamoorthi were all sworn in, marking the first time in the country’s history more than one Indian-American has served in Congress simultaneously.
Additionally, California Sen. Kamala Harris was sworn in Tuesday as the first Indian-American member in history.
“This milestone is not only a proud moment for Indian Americans, it’s a proud moment for all Americans,” Bera said. “As a nation of immigrants, the United States has greatly benefited from one generation after another of Indians and Indian Americans living here. I’m proud that Indian Americans now have the chance to contribute to our nation’s democratic fabric, and as someone who served for four years as the only Indian American in Congress, I’m honored to be joined by such qualified colleagues. With the door wide open, we hope to inspire the next generation to serve the country that we love.”
Speaking candidly, Jayapal said it was a defining moment of the struggles and contributions of the Indian-American community since their arrival in the U.S. She is the first Indian-American woman to ever serve in Congress.
“The contributions and struggles of the Indian-American community are woven into our nation’s fabric. This is a watershed moment in our community’s history, representing all that is great about America,” Jayapal said. “As the first Indian-American woman in the House of Representatives, I’m proud to serve with such capable colleagues, and I hope that our presence in Congress inspires the next generation of leaders.”
Raja Krishnamoorthi shared the same sentiment with his remarks.
“I’m humbled and honored to join my friends in Congress in this historic moment. We know we stand on the shoulders of the Indian Americans who came before us. They established themselves in this country, gave back to their communities, and paved the way for us to follow,” he said.
Bera and Khanna share much more than a cultural bond, less than 100 miles separate their congressional districts, and now the two Democrats will be working alongside each other in the nation’s capital. Khanna hails from the only Asian American majority district in the entire country, and one of the nation’s most diverse. Khanna knows that presents a special element to the job.
“It’s an extraordinary time to serve in Congress and I am proud to represent the only Asian American majority district in the continental United States,” he said. “As a son of immigrants and grandson to a freedom fighter during India’s independence movement, the protection of civil rights — no matter a person’s gender, race, or sexual orientation — will always be side-by-side with my commitment of economic fairness for all.”