Congressman Joseph Crowley (D-Queens, the Bronx), vice chair of the House Democratic Caucus and co-chair of the Congressional Caucus on India and Indian-Americans, joined the Diwali celebrations organized by the Indian American Business Association of New York celebrated Diwali at Jackson Heights, Queens, NY here last weekend.
Joe Crowley, known to be a very good friend of India, conveyed Diwali greetings to the community and recognized and appreciated Indian businessmen’s contribution to the American economy and the contribution s of the community in general. He particularly mentioned about the contribution of Mohinder Verma, president of IABA, a Jackson Heights businessman involved with the Indian-American business community.
“We wanted to celebrate Diwali involving the community members, including Indian-American businessmen, as also people from outside the community. We are happy that lawmakers like Crowley and other joined the celebration,” Verma said.
Among those present at the event, included New York City Council member Daniel Dromm, Dilip Chauhan, Director of South East/Asian Affairs, Nassau County, and Nassau county Comptroller George Maragos and Mohinder Verma, president of the organization. The event started with National Anthems of India and the U.S. followed by Bollywood dance performances by students of Aparna Dance Academy.
Dromm, who also conveyed his Diwali greetings, however, touched an emotional chord when he said that he regretted that NYC did not grant a school holiday on Diwali. “I would fight to get Diwali holiday in schools of New York City,” he said, Verma welcomed the pledge as he did the presence of some 50-odd businessmen and entrepreneurs from New York and New Jersey attending the event.
The Indian American Business Association Inc. is formed with collective efforts of New York and -based businesses. The main objective of the organization is to provide a platform and disseminate information to and among businesses that are looking to grow and expand from India to the U.S. and vice-versa.
Based on our experience and the data, many businesses are interested to expand in New York. To advance such interests and help those businesses needing support, information, and a network, IABANY intends to bridge the gap,” Verma said.
