Kamala Harris Has A Vision For South Asians, For Us

Photo: Reuters/Dustin Chambers

By Ajay Bhutoria, Deputy National Finance Chair, Democratic Party

As we approach the 2024 Presidential Election, South Asian Americans stand at a pivotal moment in U.S. history. Our choice is clear: Vice President Kamala Harris for President of the United States. As the first Indian American to serve as Vice President, Kamala Harris embodies values dear to us—pluralism, democracy, human rights, and equality. Now, as she seeks the highest office, it’s time for the South Asian community to rally behind her historic candidacy.

Under the Biden-Harris administration, I had the privilege of serving on the White House AANHPI Commission, submitting key recommendations on immigration issues that profoundly impact our community. We successfully advocated for issuing Employment Authorization Cards (EAD) for individuals in the early stages of the Green Card process, extending the H-1B grace period, and streamlining the Green Card and H-1B stamping process. These reforms have brought much-needed relief to families facing complex immigration challenges. The automatic extension of EADs and the issuing of 250,000 additional visa appointments for travelers from India are direct results of these efforts.

In contrast, Donald Trump’s immigration policies disproportionately harmed South Asians. His administration tightened restrictions on H-1B visas, which are widely used by Indian professionals. This created uncertainty for families and threatened to rescind the H-4 EAD rule, preventing spouses from working. The infamous Muslim Ban further sowed fear in South Asian Muslim communities. Trump’s policies worsened the Green Card backlog for Indian professionals, leaving thousands in limbo. His approach to asylum seekers and threats of mass deportations heightened insecurity for South Asian immigrants, creating financial strain and fostering an atmosphere of fear.

Kamala Harris has never forgotten her Indian roots. Her mother, Dr. Shyamala Gopalan, came to the U.S. at 19 to pursue education—a journey familiar to many in our community. Harris fondly recalls her visits to Chennai and her grandfather’s stories of the Indian freedom struggle, which shaped her passion for justice and public service. As Vice President, she has honored her heritage, celebrating Indian festivals like Diwali, Holi, and others, and acknowledging our community’s contributions to American society.

Harris has also been instrumental in strengthening U.S.-India ties, a relationship she deepened by hosting a state luncheon for Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi in 2023. She acknowledged India’s role in shaping the global stage, from technological innovation to climate change solutions. Under her leadership, we will continue to see a partnership that strengthens both nations and supports global democracy.

Her advocacy extends beyond diplomacy. Harris has supported aid to India during the COVID-19 pandemic, provided humanitarian relief to South Asia, and stood up for human rights in the region. Her connection to India is personal and meaningful. At a South Asians for Biden event in 2020, she reflected on the historical ties between the civil rights movement in the U.S. and India’s fight for independence. Leaders like Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. were inspired by Mahatma Gandhi’s philosophy of nonviolent resistance, a connection Harris is proud to uphold.

As we look to 2024, the South Asian vote will be critical. Our community of nearly 5 million people will play a decisive role in battleground states like Pennsylvania, Georgia, Michigan, Wisconsin, and Arizona. Kamala Harris understands our journey and represents our values. It’s time for our community to support her candidacy and help her make history again.

In partnership with Governor Tim Walz, Harris is charting a new path for America through an “Opportunity Economy.” Their plan focuses on removing barriers to opportunity, revitalizing communities, creating jobs, and spurring economic growth, with a particular focus on small businesses. Harris and Walz aim to support entrepreneurs by expanding the start-up expense tax deduction and reducing red tape, with a goal of spurring the creation of 25 million new businesses.

 Kamala Harris embodies resilience, determination, and hope. Her commitment to issues like immigration reform, healthcare, and climate change aligns with the needs of our community. In 2024, she is the leader who can take America forward. The South Asian community must unite behind her to ensure that she can lead us toward a brighter future.