Struggles and Contribution of the African-American Community and Gandhi’s Influence on Dr. King Jr. Recounted
NEW YORK CITY (TIP): In a powerful display of solidarity and reflection, the Indian Consulate in New York and the Shanti Fund hosted a vibrant celebration of Black History Month. The event, which took place on February 22, 2025, emphasized the immense contributions of the African American community and explored the enduring connections between African Americans and the Indian diaspora, especially through shared struggles for equality and justice. With dignitaries and notable figures from various sectors of society in attendance, the gathering marked a moment of both remembrance and inspiration for future collaboration.
Those who addressed included the Consul General of India, Mr. Binaya Srikanta Pradhan, Andrea Stewart Cousin, NYS Senate Majority Leader, Dr. Danielle Lee, Associate Dean of the SUNY-OW, Dr. Shawn F. Brown, Principal of Uniondale HS, Amanda Dixon of HWPL, and Dr. Bernard Gannett, VP of Enrollment at the Bronx Community College.
Soh Young Lee- Segredo and Nadine Sharman sang a couple of songs.
Arvind Vora of Shanti Fund, co- host of the celebrations was the MC.
The celebration began with opening remarks by the Consul General of India, Mr. Binaya Srikanta Pradhan, who highlighted the extraordinary success of Indian leaders educated at the Indian Institutes of Technology (IITs). He noted that 23 such leaders now occupy major leadership positions, including CEOs of global companies like YouTube, IBM, Microsoft, and Starbucks. These accomplishments, he emphasized, are deeply rooted in the education provided by IITs, which have long been considered a cornerstone of India’s educational excellence. He also mentioned the recent establishment of an IIT in Africa, a significant step towards fostering greater international collaboration.
Following the Consul General’s address, Andrea Stewart Cousin, NYS Senate Majority Leader, took the podium to offer remarks on the importance of Black History Month. Expressing deep gratitude for the opportunity to celebrate the profound achievements of the African American community, she spoke passionately about the history of Black Americans—a history shaped by struggle, resilience, and an unwavering commitment to justice. Reflecting on last year’s celebration, the Senator recounted powerful speeches that highlighted the vital contributions African Americans have made to the nation, shaping the fabric of the United States.
In particular, she delved into the historic ties between the Indian and African American communities, drawing attention to shared struggles against colonialism, discrimination, and systemic inequality. “Our histories are intertwined,” the Senator remarked. “Both communities have faced immense challenges but have also contributed immeasurably to the progress of not only the United States and India but to the world at large.”
The Senator also highlighted the pivotal role Mahatma Gandhi’s philosophy of non-violent resistance played in the American Civil Rights Movement. Drawing a direct line from Gandhi to Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., the Senator noted that King’s admiration for Gandhi’s non-violent methods was the key in shaping his leadership of the Civil Rights Movement. Dr. King’s visit to India in 1959, where he acknowledged Gandhi’s influence on his approach to social justice, was also cited as a significant moment in the deepening connection between the two movements.
The Shanti Fund, a nonprofit organization dedicated to promoting the legacy of Mahatma Gandhi, was also recognized for its work in fostering cultural and intellectual exchanges between Indian and African American communities. These exchanges, the Senator emphasized, are essential in building a world grounded in unity, equality, and mutual respect. The Senator expressed a deep commitment to strengthening these ties and advancing the shared goals of dignity and justice.
The theme of overcoming adversity through education and resilience was further explored by several other speakers, each sharing personal stories of struggle and triumph. One speaker, recounting their own journey from growing up in segregated housing projects to becoming a prominent political figure, discussed the systemic barriers that Black people face, including limited job opportunities and inadequate healthcare. They reflected on the powerful impact of the Civil Rights Movement, which led to significant legislative changes, such as the desegregation of public schools and the passage of immigration reform. “My mother was a skilled professional, but she couldn’t find work due to racism,” the speaker shared. “I’ve seen how systemic barriers hold back people, and I’ve dedicated my career to breaking down those barriers.”
A champion of human rights, they underscored the importance of education in overcoming adversity. “Education is the key to liberation,” they asserted, echoing the sentiments of civil rights leaders like Frederick Douglass and Dr. King. They also spoke about the importance of joy as a form of resistance—emphasizing that joy is not just a celebration of life but a powerful weapon against oppressive ideologies. “Joy affirms our dignity and humanity,” they said, urging the audience to embrace joy as a form of resistance and solidarity with global liberation movements.
Another speaker shared a deeply personal story of transformation. From a troubled youth who struggled with anger and direction, they found solace in education and faith. They recounted how they channeled their frustrations into boxing and basketball before discovering the liberating power of education. They spoke about the importance of mentorship, sharing a story of a student who had been on the verge of dropping out of school but found support and encouragement through their educational journey.
The celebration also marked the 30th anniversary of Shanti Bhavan, a remarkable institution that promotes cultural integration between mainstream and Southeastern immigrants, as well as the 25th anniversary of the Gandhi statue and the fifth anniversary of the Gandhi Garden. The garden, which features a tree from each of the 50 U.S. states, was inaugurated by Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi in a collaborative effort involving the Government of India, local sponsors, and various organizations. The significance of these milestones was not lost on the attendees, who recognized the importance of continued cultural exchange and community engagement in fostering mutual understanding and progress.
As the event came to a close, Arvind Vora of Shanti Fund emphasized the importance of continuing the work of the past while looking toward the future. The gathering, they stated, was not just about remembering struggles but also about inspiring future generations to continue the work of justice and equality. The evening concluded with a call to action, urging all attendees to honor the past, embrace the present, and work toward a more just and equitable future for all.
The celebration of Black History Month at the Indian Consulate in New York was a testament to the enduring spirit of solidarity between the Indian and African American communities—communities united by shared histories, struggles, and triumphs. It was an evening that not only honored the past but also inspired future collaboration in the pursuit of a more inclusive and just world.
While rooted in your own cultural or religious tradition and yet be able to admire, interact with and learn about others’ traditions is what interfaith is – much needed in the multicultural polity and world we are living in.