NRI PULSE STAFF REPORT
Fremont, CA: Raj Salwan, a long-time Fremont resident and public servant, made history as he was sworn in as the city’s first Indian-American mayor on December 10, 2024. In a touching moment during the ceremony, Salwan’s father, an Indian immigrant, administered the oath of office, symbolizing the family’s journey from immigration to public service leadership.
Salwan, who moved from India to Fremont at the age of six, has served the community for over 18 years in various roles, including Human Relations Commissioner, Planning Commissioner, City Councilmember, and Vice Mayor. His extensive experience and deep connection to the city prepared him for this pivotal role in leading Fremont into the future.
During his inaugural address, Salwan outlined his vision for Fremont, focusing on enhancing public safety, addressing homelessness, and revitalizing the city’s downtown area. He celebrated Fremont’s progress in reducing homelessness by 21% over the past two years and emphasized the importance of sustainable neighborhoods, improved infrastructure, and fostering a thriving local economy.
“My goal is to ensure Fremont continues to grow as a dynamic and inclusive city, on par with Bay Area giants like San Francisco, San Jose, and Oakland,” Salwan stated.
The historic election reflects Fremont’s vibrant Indian-American community, which makes up approximately 37% of the city’s population.
Salwan’s swearing-in marks a significant milestone not just for Fremont but also for the broader Indian-American community, symbolizing the contributions and achievements of immigrants in shaping America’s future.
