The Essex County Democratic Committee of West Orange, New Jersey, recently honored Indian-American activist Falguni Pandya with the “Women of Excellence Award.” At the Wilshire Grand Hotel, Pandya received the award alongside Susan Vezza and Khalifah Shabazz, presented by Jacqueline Jones, the wife of Leroy Jones, Jr., chair of the New Jersey and Essex County Democratic Party.
Among the attendees were Rosy Bagolie, a former member of the Livingston Township Council, and Mikie Sherrill, a congresswoman, along with current council members Ketan Bhuptani and Shawn Klein. Pandya was recognized for inspiring youth to embrace their heritage and for her selfless contributions and dedicated service to the community.
The plaque honoring Pandya lauded her as an exemplar of generosity, faith, compassion, and civic engagement, fostering a world of love, wisdom, and harmony. In her acceptance speech, Pandya emphasized the importance of empowering women and girls, citing Hindu ideals such as Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam and Yatra Naryastu Pujyante.
Acknowledging Chairman Jones for promoting diversity and inclusivity, Pandya highlighted the significance of political leaders supporting community advocates and empowering them to effect change. She underscored the importance of women recognizing their innate strength, supporting each other, and collaborating with male allies, drawing from her upbringing in a culture that reveres feminine energy.
Pandya’s advocacy extends to championing the rights and representation of Asian American and Pacific Islander communities, reflected in her appointments to the NJ-India Commission and the AAPI Commission by Governor Phil Murphy. Additionally, she leads the NJ Democrats Hindu Caucus and represents Hindu clergy in the Livingston Interfaith Clergy Association.
