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CoHNA chapter launched in Minnesota
The newly launched MN-CoHNA provides the local community a platform to contribute meaningfully to the society while making their voice heard nationally.
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Staff Reporter
- Mon, 12, May 2025
- 02:11 EDT
- 80
CoHNA team during the opening ceremony. / Photo courtesy of CoHNA
Members of the local Hindu community on May 10 came together in Minnesota for the launch of a new chapter of Coalition of Hindus of North America (CoHNA), an umbrella organisation representing Hindus in the US. The theme of the inaugural event–Strengthening Unity to Preserve Dharma–underscored the unity and solidarity of the community.
The newly launched CoHNA chapter, aptly named MN-CoHNA, provides the local community members a platform to contribute meaningfully to the society they live in while making their voice heard nationally. The development comes at a time when community members feel an urgent need to counter attempts to dilute India’s civilizational distinctiveness in the name of inclusivity.
The MN-CoHNA, which hopes to play an important role in this regard, has been quite active even before its formal launch and had organized a vigil in memory of the Pahalgam terror attack victims. It has also been hosting community discussions on issues including the need to protect Hindu temples.
The launch event featured influential community leaders including CoHNA President Nikunj Trivedi who participated via video, the organisation’s General Secretary Shobha Swamy, Chapter Director Neha Markanda, law enforcement officials, a Jewish Rabbi, and some young speakers.
Members of the community felt the need for the launch of the Minnesota chapter when a few years ago the Saint Paul City Council passed a resolution condemning India’s Citizenship Amendment Act (CAA), branding it anti-Muslim. The move was then met with a muted response from mainstream Hindu organizations in Minnesota, citing the need for neutrality but today the community members are responding to such developments with clarity, reflecting their unity.
The MN-CoHNA now offers members of the community in Minnesota a platform for informed engagement and advocacy which prepares them to meet future challenges. The chapter would focus on uniting community voices while empowering its members.
(clockwise from left) CoHNA President Nikunj Trivedi addressing via Zoom; Neha Markanda during MN-CoHNA chapter opening; Engaged audience at CoHNA opening. / Photo courtesy of CoHNA
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