US: Massachusetts Governor declares August 15 as 'India Day'
Washington, Aug 7
Massachusetts Governor Maura Healey has declared August 15 as 'India Day', honouring India's Independence Day and the contributions of Indian Americans to the state's economy, culture and public life.
Healey signed the proclamation on August 1, recognising August 15 as the 79th anniversary of India's independence in 1947. Lieutenant Governor of Massachusetts Kimberley Driscoll and Secretary of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts William Francis Galvin also endorsed the proclamation and urged people across the state to recognise and celebrate India Day on August 15, the American Bazaar reported.
In the proclamation, Massachusetts acknowledged the presence of the Indian diaspora across the world, noting that over 36 million people of Indian-origin reside outside India, including more than five million living in the US. Massachusetts also recognised the role played by members of the Indian community in the state through entrepreneurship, public service, education, innovation, healthcare and scientific research.
"The Indian American population in Massachusetts has made significant contributions in fields such as medicine, science, technology, education, business and public service, enriching the cultural and economic fabric of the Commonwealth," the proclamation reads.
It highlighted how India's Independence Day is celebrated by the Indian American community in Massachusetts. "The Indian American community across the Commonwealth of Massachusetts continues to honor this important occasion with events that celebrate India's rich cultural heritage, democratic values, and enduring commitment to peace and progress."
Similarly, Boston Mayor Michelle Wu has also declared August 15 as 'India Day' in the city, the American Bazaar reported.
On August 15, India will celebrate its 80th Independence Day, marking the day it became independent of British rule in 1947. August 15 serves as a potent metaphor for India's transformation from a colonised nation to the biggest democracy in the world.
— IANS
Reader Comments
It's great to see this recognition, but I hope it's not just symbolic. Indian Americans have been contributing to the US economy for decades - paying taxes, creating jobs, and adding to the cultural mosaic. This proclamation is nice, but we need more substantive support for our community, especially small business owners and students.
I work with many Indian colleagues in the tech sector here in Boston, and their work ethic and expertise are unmatched. This declaration is well-deserved recognition of the incredible contributions the Indian community makes to our state every single day. Congratulations to all celebrating!
As someone who grew up celebrating Independence Day in India and now lives here, this means so much to me. It's heartwarming to see our adopted home honoring our roots. The Indian community in MA is vibrant - from the Holi celebrations in Cambridge to the Diwali events in Quincy. This recognition validates all our hard work. 🎉✨
I'm glad the Governor is recognizing the Indian community's contributions. The Indian restaurants, cultural centers, and community organizations here in MA have really enriched our state. It's a great example of how diversity makes America stronger. Happy Independence Day to all our Indian neighbors!
This is a proud moment for all Indians. From a colonized nation to becoming the world's largest democracy, we've come a long way. And now to see our progress recognized internationally is truly special. The 80th Independence Day will be extra meaningful this year, especially with this recognition from Massachusetts. 🇮🇳
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