The South Asian community in Queens is mobilizing support for candidates Vichal Kumar and Somnath Ghimire ahead of New York’s Democratic primary on June 23.
JACKSON HEIGHTS, NY – As New York’s Democratic primary on June 23 approaches, the South Asian community in Queens is leveraging years of grassroots organizing to build electoral momentum. At a recent campaign event, South Asians for America (SAFA) gathered supporters to rally behind two candidates aiming to enhance South Asian representation in New York politics.
Vichal Kumar, a civil rights attorney, is running for Congress in New York’s 7th District. If successful, he would become the first South Asian American elected to Congress from New York. Meanwhile, Somnath Ghimire is vying for a seat in the State Assembly representing District 30. His election would mark a significant milestone as he would be the first Nepali American from Queens to serve in a state legislature.
The event took place at the Nepali Bhanchha Ghar Restaurant and attracted a diverse crowd, including attorneys, activists, first-generation immigrants, and local residents. SAFA Co-National Director Neha Dewan emphasized the importance of representation, noting that New York’s substantial South Asian population has historically been underrepresented in federal office.
Kumar articulated his campaign’s focus on critical issues such as protecting immigrant families from ICE raids, expanding healthcare access, and strengthening worker protections. “South Asian immigrants built this city block by block,” he stated. “We need to ensure we have representation now more than ever.”
Ghimire was introduced by SAFA Co-National Director Harini Krishnan, who highlighted his background in community organizing and local advocacy. A resident of Woodside and a labor leader, Ghimire’s campaign centers on affordable housing, improving public schools, and enhancing worker protections. “Our community is stronger when South Asians stand together,” Ghimire remarked. “On June 23, we are going to show Queens and the country what this community can do when we move as one.”
The gathering also served as a voter outreach initiative, with volunteers actively writing postcards to residents across western Queens. Krishnan described the postcard campaign as an accessible organizing tool for immigrant communities, emphasizing that civic participation does not necessitate insider connections or substantial financial contributions.
Among the speakers at the event were Dinesh Mojumder, President of Bengali Club USA; Dileepkumar Thankappan from the New York State Interfaith Council; SAFA activist Merina Parajuli; and Dinesh Sunar, a parkour athlete and 22-time Guinness World Records holder.
As the primary date approaches, the South Asian community in Queens is poised to make a significant impact, advocating for candidates who reflect their values and aspirations.
According to India West, the efforts of SAFA and the community underscore the growing political engagement among South Asians in New York.