Gun Violence And Safety Discussed At Annual ‘Unity Dinner’ In Milpitas, CA
India-West Staff Reporter
MILPITAS, CA – The 22nd edition of the Indo-American Community Federation’s Unity Dinner, was held here on April 21, at the India Community Center. This year’s focus on ‘The Rise in Gun Violence and the Impact on our Youth,’ drew a sizable audience of a little over 300 people including 38 public and elected officials from city and state levels.
The keynote was by the Mayor of the city of San Jose, Matt Mahan, who talked about the immediate need to address gun violence and other safety issues while a panel moderated by Anjali Shaykher Zutshi, with Santa Clara District Attorney Jeff Rosen, City Council members of Fremont Teresa Keng and Desrie Campbell and social entrepreneur Fish Stark also explored and discussed ways of reducing gun violence.
IACF which was founded by Jeevan Zutshi, a native of Kashmir, in his speech said, “Politicians by introducing bills which are divisive, will be dividing our communities. It is grossly irresponsible to politicize any situation. Let us get politics out of our communities and strive to eradicate other safety-related issues we are facing at present.”
He referred to Rev. Martin Luther Jr’s India visit and said, “As Indians, we have to feel proud that our ancient culture and spiritual wisdom have something unique to offer, even today, to reinvigorate nonviolence in America.”
A vibrant cultural program reflecting the diversity in the state was held, highlighting Hispanic, Chinese and Indian dances.
