New York, USA (CU)_ The United States is gradually recognizing the impact of South Asians, which is evidenced by the renaming of MacDonald Church Avenue in Brooklyn as “Little Bangladesh” and the proclamation of August 15 as Indian American Day in Dallas. Despite the fact that many continue to demonize immigrants, South Asians have carved out a particular niche for themselves.
At a recent gathering, Zahid F. Sarder Saddi, a Bangladeshi activist, thanked Representatives Gregory Meeks, Hakeem Jeffries, Yvette Clarke, and Grace Meng for their support and dedication to the Bangladeshi community. The New York City Council passed a resolution appreciating the Bangladeshi community’s contribution to the city’s development. Additionally, support from New York House Representatives from the 5th, 6th, 8th, and 9th districts was vital to achieving the victory.
Recent research indicates that around forty percent of taxi drivers in New York City is from South Asia, including Bangladesh, India, Pakistan, Sri Lanka, and Nepal. Before the pandemic, 23% of all enterprises in New York City were owned by Asians. According to these assessments, Bangladeshi New Yorkers contribute a major part to the city’s economy. According to reports, as a token of appreciation, Dallas Mayor Eric Johnson proclaimed August 15 as Indian American Day, highlighting his vision for a globalized city and economy.
The Dallas-Fort Worth region comprises around 220,000 Indian Americans, which accounts for only two and a half percent of the total population. However, the Indian American community runs around 5.5% of the corporation. This generates 10 billion dollars in direct revenue for the city. In celebration of the news, the Reunion Tour Ball was lit in the Indian flag colors: orange, green, and white.
According to reports, Asian Americans will be the biggest immigrant community in the United States by 2065, mostly due to the South Asian population, which increased by a startling 40 percent in seven years, from 3.5 million in 2010 to 5.4 million in 2017. With the increase in population, their contributions to the economy and culture also increased. Hence, it is time that they are valued for who they are and not for their differences.
