NRI PULSE STAFF REPORT
WASHINGTON, DC, October 26, 2026: U.S. Rep. Raja Krishnamoorthi (D-Illinois) has introduced a bipartisan resolution backed by 256 cosponsors calling for July to be recognized as Indian American Heritage Month, honoring the history, achievements and contributions of more than 5.2 million Indian Americans across the United States.
The resolution recognizes the community’s contributions to American life, from science, medicine and technology to business, education, public service, journalism, philanthropy, arts and culture.
“Indian Americans have helped shape this country for generations, from breakthroughs that have saved lives and businesses that have created jobs to lifetimes of service in our military and public office,” Krishnamoorthi said.
“I’m proud to lead 256 of my colleagues in designating July as Indian American Heritage Month to honor that legacy and celebrate the many ways Indian Americans continue to enrich our country.”
The choice of July carries historical significance. On July 2, 1946, President Harry S. Truman signed the Luce-Celler Act into law, making people of Indian descent eligible to become naturalized American citizens.
Before the law was enacted, Indian immigrants faced restrictions on their ability to obtain U.S. citizenship. The 1946 legislation marked an important turning point in the history of Indian immigration to the United States.
The proposed resolution highlights the Indian American community’s growth and influence over the decades. Citing 2023 U.S. Census Bureau estimates, it notes that more than 5.2 million people in the country identify as Indian American.
It also recognizes the community’s religious, linguistic and regional diversity, acknowledging the many traditions that Indian immigrants and their descendants have brought to the United States.
The resolution specifically highlights Indian American achievements in biomedical research, space exploration, artificial intelligence, computing and telecommunications, as well as contributions to entrepreneurship, higher education and economic scholarship.
It also acknowledges Indian Americans who have served in government and public office, including members of every branch of the U.S. Armed Forces.
Beyond professional achievements, the resolution celebrates the community’s influence on American culture through music, film, television, literature, cuisine, athletics and the performing arts.
The measure recognizes the preservation and sharing of India’s diverse cultural and religious traditions as an important part of the American experience.
Under the resolution, the House of Representatives would formally recognize that Indian Americans contribute to the nation’s diversity and strength and express support for designating July as Indian American Heritage Month.
If approved, the resolution would mark a congressional acknowledgment of the Indian American community’s history and contributions, while drawing attention to the 1946 law that opened the door to U.S. citizenship for Indian immigrants.
The resolution comes as Indian Americans continue to play increasingly visible roles in American business, science, politics, public service and cultural life.
The full text of the proposed resolution is available here.
I’m proud to lead 256 bipartisan cosponsors in a resolution to designate July as Indian American Heritage Month. Generations of Indian Americans have helped build and strengthen our country. It’s time we honor their contributions and celebrate their enduring legacy. https://t.co/NLSnPE1row
— Congressman Raja Krishnamoorthi (@CongressmanRaja) October 26, 2026
