‘Desi Dialogues’ launches with discussion on immigration, seeks donations

US Senator Chris Van Hollen, above, and Chintan Patel, executive director of Indian American Impact. PHOTOS: Courtesy iaimpact.org

On Tuesday, May 20, the South Asian Impact Foundation, a part of the Indian American Impact (iaimpact.org) organization, launched its new Desi Dialogues series, where experts field questions on issues of concern to the community.

Impact described it as “a space for urgent and honest conversations about the issues at the top of our community’s mind,” in a press release seeking donations.

The first session, “Immigration in Crisis- What South Asians Need to Know Now,” brought together U.S. Senator Chris Van Hollen, D-Virginia, and immigration attorneys Sowmya Rao and Sheela Murthy, and Robin Gurung, Co-Executive Director of Asian Refugees United.

Clockwise, Saumya Rao, Chintan Patel, Robin Gurung, and Sheela Murthy. PHOTO: Courtesy iaimpact.org

Questions from the community centered around:

What documentation should I have on me at all times as a citizen or a visa or green card holder?
What risks should I be aware of when traveling, and what are my rights if I get detained at the airport?
If I leave the country and am on a visa or green card, will I be let back in?

According to Impact, “These are not abstract hypotheticals. These are real fears in Desi households today,” and it went on to add, “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.”