Rep. Raja Krishnamoorthi Proposes January As Tamil Heritage Month
India-West Staff Reporter
WASHINGTON, DC – Congressman Raja Krishnamoorthi (D-IL) has introduced a bipartisan resolution to designate January as Tamil Language and Heritage Month, to celebrate the rich cultural and linguistic heritage of Tamil, one of the world’s oldest languages. Tamil is spoken by over 80 million people worldwide, including 360,000 in the US, and boasts a history spanning over 2,600 years.
The timing of the resolution aligns with Pongal, a significant Tamil festival celebrated in mid-January. Krishnamoorthi emphasized the cultural importance of the resolution, stating, “As a Tamil American, I am proud to introduce this resolution honoring Tamil language, heritage, and culture. I hope this resolution will highlight the distinct culture and achievements of the more than 350,000 Tamil Americans today.”
The resolution highlights the ancient history of Tamil, citing evidence of a civilization in Keeladi, Tamil Nadu, dating back to the 3rd century BCE. Tamil is an official language in three countries and has made significant contributions to global cultural, social, and economic development. Influential Tamil literary works such as Thirukkural, Silappatikaram, and Manimegalai continue to inspire people around the world.
The resolution has garnered bipartisan support from representatives including Reps. Nicole Malliotakis (R-NY), Thanedar (D-MI), Ro Khanna (D-CA), Suhas Subramanyam (D-VA), Pramila Jayapal (D-WA), Ami Bera (D-CA) , Ilhan Omar (D-MN), Yevette Clark (D-NY), Sara Jacobs (D-CA), Debroah Ross (D-NC), Danny Davis (D-IL), Dina Titus (D-NV), Don Davis (D-NC), and Summer Lee (D-PA). Organizations such as Tamil Americans United PAC, FeTNA, and USTAG have also expressed their support.
Several states, including Michigan, Georgia, and Massachusetts, have already recognized Tamil culture, while others like North Carolina, Wisconsin, Virginia, and Minnesota celebrate January as Tamil Heritage Month.
If passed, the resolution would call for Congress to officially designate January as Tamil Language and Heritage Month, honoring the contributions of Tamil Americans and celebrating their impact on the nation’s diversity.
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