OLYMPIA, Wash. (Diya TV) — The Washington State Senate passed a resolution Monday celebrating the significant contributions of Indian Americans to the state’s culture and history. The resolution, sponsored by Sen. Manka Dhingra (D-Redmond), acknowledges the impact of over 100,000 Indian Americans in Washington.
Sen. Dhingra, the first Sikh American elected to a state legislature in U.S. history, spoke of the shared democratic values between India and the United States during her speech. “Indian Americans enrich every facet of our society — from the classroom to the boardroom,” Dhingra said. “We must continue to safeguard the rights and values of our democracies.”
This Senate resolution coincides with Republic Day 2025, which marks India’s adoption of its constitution and its commitment to democracy. Prayers were conducted by Mustafa Mohamedali of the Islamic Center of Olympia and Karandeep Singh of the Khalsa Gurmat Center in Federal Way.
Several Indian American leaders were also recognized for their efforts, including Consul General Prakash Gupta and Nilesh Patel, a board member of the BAPS temple in Redmond. “This recognition is a testament to the unity and strength of our communities,” said Preeti Shridhar, Woodinville Water District commissioner.
