On Tuesday, May 20, the South Asian Impact Foundation, which operates under the umbrella of Indian American Impact (iaimpact.org), introduced its new initiative titled Desi Dialogues. This forum is designed to allow subject matter experts to answer pressing questions from the South Asian community about critical issues, particularly focusing on immigration in its inaugural session.
In a press release calling for support and donations, Impact described the Desi Dialogues initiative as “a space for urgent and honest conversations about the issues at the top of our community’s mind.” The organization emphasized that these conversations are meant to address the deep concerns felt by South Asian Americans, especially around complex topics like immigration that have a direct and often stressful impact on their daily lives.
The first discussion under this new series was titled “Immigration in Crisis – What South Asians Need to Know Now.” The event featured a panel that included U.S. Senator Chris Van Hollen of Virginia, alongside well-known immigration attorneys Sowmya Rao and Sheela Murthy. Also present was Robin Gurung, Co-Executive Director of Asian Refugees United, who brought perspectives from the refugee community.
Together, the panelists addressed a wide range of real-world concerns that are troubling South Asians in the United States. These were not theoretical debates or abstract policy discussions; instead, the dialogue was rooted in real-life anxieties experienced by individuals and families navigating the increasingly complex immigration landscape in the U.S.
The event saw a high level of community engagement, with participants posing questions that reflected both uncertainty and fear. One of the most common concerns was about the kind of documentation one should carry at all times, whether they are U.S. citizens, visa holders, or green card holders. This worry arises in the context of rising enforcement actions and heightened scrutiny at various checkpoints, including airports.
Another frequently asked question dealt with the risks associated with traveling outside the country. Attendees wanted to know what rights they have if detained at an airport and how they should handle such a situation. Concerns about being allowed back into the country after international travel were also top of mind, particularly for those on visas or with green cards. These questions reflect a deeper anxiety about the fragility of one’s immigration status, even when that status is legally valid and current.
According to the Impact Foundation, these are not distant or speculative scenarios. “These are not abstract hypotheticals. These are real fears in Desi households today,” the organization said in its press release. For many families, these issues are discussed around dinner tables and in community centers, driven by both personal experiences and stories shared within extended networks.
The Foundation emphasized the emotional weight behind these concerns, underlining a strong desire among South Asians in the U.S. to feel secure and recognized in the country they now call home. “We know this country is our home, and we belong here. And together, we’re building the power to make sure no one forgets that,” the statement continued.
This first Desi Dialogues session is indicative of a broader strategy by Indian American Impact and its affiliated organizations to create platforms where the community can both voice its fears and gain actionable information. It reflects a growing political and civic awareness among South Asian Americans, who have increasingly sought to advocate for their rights in a turbulent political climate.
The inclusion of Senator Chris Van Hollen in the discussion added a layer of policy insight that connected the legal perspectives of the attorneys and the lived experiences of immigrants to actual legislative frameworks. Van Hollen, a Democrat from Virginia, has been a known advocate for immigration reform and has supported legislation aimed at easing pathways to citizenship and improving protections for visa and green card holders.
Immigration attorneys Sowmya Rao and Sheela Murthy provided crucial legal expertise, explaining the complexities of current immigration laws and helping demystify the rights and responsibilities of various visa categories. Their advice was grounded in both legal precedent and the kinds of cases they encounter regularly in their practices.
Robin Gurung’s participation brought attention to the refugee segment of the South Asian population, which often faces even more precarious situations due to their limited resources and less stable legal status. As Co-Executive Director of Asian Refugees United, Gurung emphasized the importance of community support systems and legal aid in navigating the immigration system.
The South Asian Impact Foundation plans to continue the Desi Dialogues series as a recurring program, tackling a range of issues relevant to the South Asian diaspora in the United States. These topics are expected to include not just immigration, but also areas such as healthcare access, education equity, political representation, and economic opportunities.
By creating a consistent and reliable forum for these discussions, the Foundation hopes to empower individuals with knowledge while also fostering a sense of solidarity across the diverse South Asian community. The initiative reflects an ongoing commitment to advocacy and civic engagement, driven by the belief that informed citizens are essential for a just and equitable society.
The launch of Desi Dialogues comes at a time when immigrant communities across the country are grappling with mixed messages from federal policies and heightened scrutiny in immigration enforcement. For South Asians, many of whom are here on work-based visas or are in the process of securing permanent residency, these uncertainties have caused added stress.
At its core, the goal of Desi Dialogues is to transform fear into action and confusion into clarity. By connecting community members directly with legal experts and policymakers, the series seeks to close the information gap that often leaves individuals feeling powerless. It also serves as a platform for collective advocacy, where shared stories and concerns can be amplified and addressed at higher levels of governance.
The Impact Foundation’s message is clear: South Asian Americans are not alone in their struggles. Through initiatives like Desi Dialogues, they are building a community that is not only informed but also prepared to stand up for its rights.
As stated by Impact in its release, “We know this country is our home, and we belong here. And together, we’re building the power to make sure no one forgets that.” With this powerful declaration, the organization sets the tone for future dialogues that aim to unite, educate, and uplift the South Asian community across the United States.