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Connecticut lawmakers recognize GOPIO-CT’s community service
GOPIO-CT was recognized for promoting Indian culture, highlighting Indian Americans’ contributions, and supporting charities and community organizations across Connecticut.
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Staff Reporter - Wed, 12, Aug 2026
- 13:16 EDT
- 60
Presentation of the citation / GOPIO-CT
The Connecticut General Assembly and the City of Stamford honored the Global Organization of People of Indian Origin–Connecticut Chapter (GOPIO-CT) during its India Day celebrations commemorating the 79th anniversary of India’s Independence.
The Connecticut State Assembly issued a citation recognizing GOPIO-CT for promoting awareness of Indian culture and customs, highlighting Indian Americans’ contributions across various fields and supporting charitable organizations throughout the state.
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The citation was initiated by Senator Patricia Billie Miller and introduced by nine other state senators and representatives. It was signed by Senate President Pro Tempore Martin M. Looney, House Speaker Matt Ritter and Secretary of the State Stephanie Thomas.
The proclamation noted, “In the last 20 years, GOPIO-CT has supported many service organizations in Connecticut including Future 5, Women’s Mentoring Network, Children’s Learning Center, Teach for America, Building One Community, Grass Roots of Stamford and Norwalk, Mill River Park Collaborative, Connecticut Institute for Refugees and Immigrants, Norwalk Community College, Dollar for Scholars, New Covenant Center and other food pantries in Fairfield County, Person to Person, and the Stamford Hospital Foundation, and its Bennet Cancer Center.”
Stamford Mayor Caroline Simmons also issued a proclamation recognizing India’s Independence and GOPIO-CT’s services and contributions to the city. The proclamation was presented by Janeene Freeman, the mayor’s representative and the city’s Director of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion, and acknowledged the organization’s support for charitable service providers across Fairfield County.
The celebration featured elected officials, community leaders and representatives of the Indian Consulate. Speakers reflected on India’s democratic journey, the growing contributions and representation of Indian Americans, and the strengthening relationship between India and the United States.
“As members of the Indian diaspora we represent the bridge between the two democracies. The world's greatest, the largest, and the world's oldest. Our two democracies share a lot through economic, innovative, cultural, and educational eyes. At the heart of this relation is the Indian diaspora,” GOPIO-CT secretary Mirat Joshi said.
During the event, GOPIO-CT presented its 2026 Liberty Award to Prachi Narayan, recognizing her community service and work supporting local weavers and craftsmen through her company, Kaashi.
The event concluded with the India Day Festival at Stamford’s Mill River Park, featuring Indian music, folk and classical dances, Bollywood performances, kite flying, food and cultural vendors. More than 40 performers participated in the cultural program.
Discover more at New India Abroad.
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