Indian-American Representative Shri ThanidharDemocrats from Michigan have become prominent voices in opposition indian phobia and racism in America. Thanidhar, who was born in the Indian state of Karnataka, was the target of hate speech for his public support of the Islamic State movement. H-1B visa program and increase legal immigration.
champion immigration reform
Thanedar recently advocated expansion of H-1B visa This program enables skilled foreign workers to contribute to the U.S. economy. “By increasing the number of H1-B visas and streamlining the H1-B and Green Card processes, the United States maintains its edge in innovation and discovery,” he said in a tweet. He criticized anti-immigration sentiment often appears in MAGA circles and labels them “racist and xenophobic”.
MAGA hardliners backlash
Sanidar’s stance sparked a wave of online hate, with xenophobic comments calling on him to “go back to India” and questioning his loyalty to the United States. Comments including “Can I buy you a ticket to Mumbai?” were accused of harming American workers.
Condemning Hinduphobia
In response, Thanedar introduced a bipartisan resolution condemning Hinduphobia. “Racism in America still exists, and we must stand against it together. Just read the recent replies to any post containing ‘H-1B’ to see the deplorable rhetoric against Indian Americans,” he said.
The H-1B debate and its critics
The H-1B program has been a polarizing topic, with MAGA supporters claiming the program displaces American workers, despite evidence suggesting otherwise. Indian workers, who dominate the program, are often targeted because of their numbers and success in obtaining high-skilled jobs in the United States
Critics such as Vivek Ramaswamy have pointed to cultural differences, saying: “Our American culture has long valued mediocrity over excellence. A culture that celebrates prom queens rather than Math Olympiad champions… …does not produce the best engineers.
Tanidal’s influence grows day by day
Senedal’s rise as a prominent advocate against racism and Hinduphobia has placed him at the forefront of discussions about immigration and diversity. As a member of Congress who straddles the spectrum of American politics and Indian heritage, his efforts highlight the ongoing challenges and contributions of Indian Americans in shaping the American narrative.