Several Indian-American organizations are intensifying efforts to counter a rise in attacks targeting Indian immigrants and professionals on social media. Chintan Patel, Executive Director of the Indian American Impact Fund, expressed the need for coordinated actions to address this concerning trend. Patel emphasized that the goal is to change the narrative around immigration, focusing on the resilience and contributions of immigrants, rather than demonizing them.
The hateful rhetoric, largely seen during the year-end holiday season, has mainly come from supporters of U.S. President-elect Donald Trump’s Make America Great Again (MAGA) movement, leading to growing alarm among the Indian-American community. Many have voiced concerns about their safety, particularly those on H-1B visas.
Patel emphasized that the Indian American Impact Fund is committed to defending the community and collaborating with other immigrant groups. Despite the attacks primarily being online, there are mounting fears over physical safety, prompting community leaders to seek support from elected officials. Patel criticized Republican leaders for their silence on the issue, citing the MAGA movement’s history of fostering division and embracing xenophobic rhetoric. Meanwhile, he praised Democrats for passing hate crime legislation aimed at protecting vulnerable communities.
Patel also criticized Elon Musk for his divisive rhetoric on social media, asserting that his posts often fueled racial fears and contributed to division. He warned that unless the new administration takes meaningful action to reject xenophobia, they risk losing lasting support from Indian Americans.
