BY JYOTHSNA HEGDE
Atlanta, GA, March 14, 2025: The Coalition of Hindus of North America (CoHNA) marked its second annual “Building Bridges: Connecting Communities” event at the Georgia State Capitol on February 28, 2025, in celebration of Black History Month. The event honored the pivotal contributions of the Black community to the civil rights movement, recognizing how those efforts paved the way for minority communities, including Hindu Americans, to thrive in a more just and inclusive society. CoHNA’s commemoration emphasized the organization’s dedication to strengthening ties between the Hindu and Black communities through advocacy and shared civic engagement.
The event drew over 40 lawmakers, including prominent African American legislative leaders such as Senator Nikki Merritt, chair of the Georgia Legislative Black Caucus (GLBC), and Senator Emanuel Jones, former GLBC chair. Additional speakers included Senator Shawn Still, and State Representative Todd Jones reflecting bipartisan support for the occasion. Senator Nan Orrock and Rep. Carter Barrett were among the leaders who graced the occasion.
“We see this as more than just an annual event—it’s an ongoing collaboration based on mutual respect,” said Rajeev Menon, CoHNA vice president and co-founder. “As Hindus, we are inspired by the groundbreaking work of the Black community and look forward to working together to strengthen our communities and improve our shared future as Americans.”
CoHNA leaders such as Pravin Patel further stressed the value of cultivating meaningful relationships across cultural lines, reinforcing the importance of solidarity and unity.
A memorable highlight of the event was a heartfelt speech by Sagar Patel, an 11th-grade Hindu American student, who spoke about the role of youth in driving advocacy and civic engagement. “I was delighted to see leaders from various backgrounds, including Black policymakers from across the political spectrum, take part in this event. This important cross-cultural gathering underscores that Hindus have a place in America—just as all communities do,” said Patel. Young members from Hindu Yuva also contributed to the event’s success, while attendees enjoyed the Darshana Exhibit, an educational showcase highlighting Hindu contributions to history, culture, and society.
The connection between Hindu and Black history is rich and multifaceted, rooted in shared experiences of resilience, cultural exchange, and struggles for justice. Throughout history, both communities have faced discrimination and marginalization, yet have demonstrated remarkable strength and perseverance. Notably, figures like Mahatma Gandhi and Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. drew inspiration from each other’s movements — Gandhi’s philosophy of non-violence greatly influenced King’s approach to civil rights in America. Additionally, during the 20th century, Indian immigrants in countries like South Africa and the United States formed alliances with Black activists in the fight against racial oppression. Cultural intersections are also evident in music, cuisine, and art, where both traditions have enriched one another. This shared history underscores the power of solidarity in overcoming social injustices and advancing equality.
The ongoing influence of these connections demonstrates that the relationship between Hindu American and Black American communities is more than historical—it is a foundation for strengthening ties and fostering cooperation today.
Black History Month is a time to honor the rich heritage, achievements, and contributions of Black individuals throughout history. Celebrated each February, it serves as a powerful reminder of the resilience, creativity, and impact of the African American community in shaping society. It began as a way of remembering important people and events in the history of the African diaspora, initially lasting a week before becoming a month-long observation since 1970. From trailblazing leaders and cultural icons to scientific innovators and civil rights activists, their influence has left an indelible mark on the world. Black History Month also encourages reflection on the ongoing struggle for racial equality, inspiring conversations about justice, inclusion, and the importance of embracing diversity.
“I appreciate the efforts by CoHNA to bridge communities and that is what this meeting is about today,” Senator Jones remarked.
“I was politicized by the civil rights movement in the 60s. I was there to hear Dr. King’s iconic ‘I have a dream’ speech,” Senator Nan Orrock, said In her exclusive with NRI Pulse. She spoke about the diversity and representation in the legislature, with a focus on the experiences of underrepresented groups. She reflected on her election in 1987, highlighting the predominantly Aboriginal male majority in the House detention. Senator Orrock underscored the importance of legislative bodies reflecting the population, mentioning the significant Black population in Georgia and the need for equitable representation. She also touched upon the symbolic significance of having diverse representatives, such as the first Bangladeshi immigrant to win the legislature, who brings an international perspective. She concluded with a nod to the progress made in women’s representation, though noting that there is still a long way to go. A prominent political figure from Georgia known for her long-standing commitment to social justice, civil rights, and progressive change. Serving in the Georgia State Senate since 2007, Orrock has been a strong advocate for working families, women’s rights, and marginalized communities. Throughout her career, Senator Orrock has championed policies that promote equality, education, and healthcare access,
The Coalition of Hindus of North America (CoHNA) is a grassroots advocacy and civil rights organization committed to enhancing public understanding of Hinduism and advancing the interests of the Hindu community in North America. For more information, visit https://cohna.org or follow CoHNA on Twitter, Facebook, LinkedIn, and Instagram.
