USA (Commonwealth Union)_In a groundbreaking move to elevate South Asian representation in US politics, two Indian Americans, Dr. Tausif Malik and Dr. Shabana Parvez, have launched the Global Desi Republican Caucus (GDRC). This initiative aims to provide a platform for South Asians to align their values with the Republican Party’s principles and influence US policies. Dr. Malik, a former leader of the Muslim Democrats Abroad, and Dr. Parvez, a board-certified emergency physician, founded the caucus to address key issues faced by the South Asian diaspora. With an estimated 5.4 million South Asians in the United States, the GDRC seeks to elevate the voices of this expanding community, pushing for policies that align with their values and priorities.
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Aligning South Asian values with republican principles
The Global Desi Republican Caucus focuses on aligning the South Asian community’s values with the Republican ideals of fiscal responsibility, family unity, and an “America First” approach. Dr. Malik emphasized the importance of leveraging the collective influence of South Asians to shape policies that resonate with their core beliefs, including family, affordability, education, and opportunity. Dr. Malik stated, “South Asians have contributed immensely to America’s social, economic, and cultural fabric”. He added, “It is time that we channel our collective influence to shape policies that reflect our core values: family, affordability, education, opportunity, and unity.” Dr. Malik further expressed that the Republican Party’s emphasis on entrepreneurship and reducing government overreach aligns with the aspirations of South Asian Americans, many of whom value business growth and self-reliance.
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Improving healthcare and addressing economic issues
Dr. Parvez, who brings over two decades of experience in emergency medicine, addressed some of the inefficiencies in the American healthcare system, drawing comparisons with healthcare in India. She pointed out that while her relatives in India have simple access to affordable healthcare, the US system remains inefficient despite its high costs. Dr. Parvez expressed, “There has to be a more efficient use of government dollars allocated to healthcare”. She added, “We also need to make sure that primary care is accessible to reduce the overcrowding in emergency departments.” Additionally, apart from healthcare, the GDRC also intends to address a range of issues affecting the South Asian community, including eliminating double taxation, advocating for affordable education, supporting entrepreneurship, and promoting economic empowerment. The caucus also seeks to strengthen policies that emphasize family values and community unity, which are central to South Asian culture.
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Inspired by Indian heritage
Both Dr. Malik and Dr. Parvez credit their Indian roots as a major influence on their vision for the GDRC. Dr. Malik, who was born in Pune, draws inspiration from the leadership of Maratha King Shivaji Maharaj, known for his “people-first” philosophy. “His leadership inspires my vision to prioritize community welfare,” Dr. Malik said. On the other hand, Dr. Parvez, a native of Hyderabad and grown up in the West Indies, advocates for the values of family, women’s empowerment, and accessible healthcare. She stated, “As South Asians, we bring a rich tapestry of values and innovation to the US”.
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Key issues and priorities to focus
The Global Desi Republican Caucus has outlined several key priorities, including:
- Eliminating Double Taxation: Advocating for reforms that benefit non-resident Americans.
- Affordable Healthcare: Proposing cost-efficient healthcare models.
- Economic Empowerment: Supporting entrepreneurship and reducing regulatory burdens.
- Accessible Education: Addressing student debt and supporting cost-effective learning opportunities.
- Family Values: Strengthening policies that prioritize community and unity.
Additionally, the GDRC has raised concerns about the rising retail crime in the US, particularly in California, where shoplifting incidents have reached a two-decade high. Dr. Malik criticized the state’s Proposition 47, which he believes has worsened the situation, and stressed the need for stronger policies to protect businesses.
An open call to action
Furthermore, the founders of the GDRC have also extended an invitation to members of the South Asian community to join their cause. Dr. Malik encouraged his fellow South Asians to unite and build a future that honors their shared values. “Together, we can build a future that honors our values and strengthens America’s promise of prosperity for all,” he said. Dr. Parvez stated, “Through the GDRC, we have the opportunity to shape policies that resonate our collective priorities while contributing to America’s progress. This is our time to lead with purpose.” Overall, with the launch of the Global Desi Republican Caucus, Dr. Malik and Dr. Parvez are working to create a powerful political platform that amplifies the voices of South Asians in the United States and shapes policies that benefit the community.
