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“Participate. Be part of the mainstream,” Thanedar tells Indian Americans
Linking political participation to immigration policy, economic opportunity, and long-term influence, Thanedar said disengagement carries real consequences for the community’s future in the United States.
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Avani Acharya - Sat, 13, Dec 2025
- 10:48 EST
- 172
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Congressman Shri Thanedar / File Photo
Congressman Shri Thanedar urged greater political participation by Indian Americans in his keynote at the inaugural India Abroad Dialogue held in Detroit on Dec. 13.
Thanedar said political involvement directly shapes outcomes that affect daily life. “Politics impacts your life,” he said. “It impacts your immigration status. It impacts your job status. It impacts every part of your life, your children's lives.”
The democrat framed his remarks against the backdrop of shifting global alliances, emphasizing the strategic importance of the India-U.S. relationship. “The United States needs India because China has become so aggressive… China is a real threat to the United States,” he said, citing cyber threats and economic competition.
Addressing recent trade and tariff-related tensions, Thanedar cautioned against unilateral measures, arguing they undermine long-term cooperation.
“I don't think that is productive for a good India-US relationship,” he said, adding that disputes should be resolved through dialogue and sustained engagement. “There should be a better dialogue to be able to do this so that we can have a lasting good relationship with these two countries.”
Also read: Rep. Thanedar files impeachment articles against Hegseth
Turning to regional ties, Thanedar highlighted Michigan’s growing economic and technological links with India, particularly in manufacturing and high-skilled immigration. “Michigan and India are already economically linked,” he said, pointing to collaboration in the public and technology sectors.
He cited Ford Motor Company’s recently announced $370 million investment in India as an example of deepening commercial engagement. “That vision reflects confidence in India's growth in manufacturing capability and its long-term growth,” he said, noting that Michigan-based companies continue to expand globally while remaining rooted in the state.
Thanedar also addressed rising anti-immigrant sentiment, rejecting claims that immigrants undermine American workers. “We are a nation of immigrants. America's greatness is not despite immigrants,” he said. “It's because of the contribution of immigrants.”
He underscored the role of Indian American professionals in advancing innovation, particularly in technology and mobility. “Immigration has greatly benefited America by giving us the best shot at recruiting talent from all over the world,” he said, describing India as “a fantastic source for remarkable talent in STEM.”
In closing, Thanedar called on Indian Americans nationwide to take a more active role in civic life. “Participate. We have to be participating. We have to be part of the mainstream,” he said, urging volunteering, community organizing, and political engagement to strengthen the community’s voice.
“We are a strong, proud community,” he added, “and when we stand together, we can accomplish anything we set our minds to.”
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