ADVERTISEMENTs
FIA-Chicago hosts Memorial Day ‘Meet & Greet’
Attendees included representatives from Indian-American organizations, businesses, and local civic groups.
-
Staff Reporter
- Thu, 29, May 2025
- 16:02 EDT
- 16
Memorial Day ‘Meet & Greet’ / FIA Chicago
The Federation of Indian Associations (FIA) Chicago hosted a Memorial Day “Meet & Greet” on May 25, drawing over 150 members of the Indo-American community.
The program opened with remarks from FIA president Hemant Patel, who highlighted the group’s ongoing efforts to promote cultural engagement, public service, and community advocacy. A video presentation outlined FIA’s past initiatives, including diaspora outreach and social programming.
Also Read: Glendale, NY Commemorates Memorial Day with 87th Annual Parade
Proceedings began with the national anthems of the United States and India, followed by a moment of silence for the 26 civilians killed in the Pahalgam attack. A video montage revisited major terror incidents in India—including Kargil, Pathankot, Uri, and Mumbai—and featured footage from Operation Sindoor, an Indian military strike targeting militant camps.
.jpeg)
National anthems of the United States and India being played / FIA ChicagoIn his remarks, Patel called for a firm international stance on terrorism and extremism, stating that tributes should reflect both solidarity and strength. He and FIA trustee-director Bharat Barai also used the occasion to urge economic boycotts of countries and businesses they said enable extremist violence. “Terrorism and atrocities must never be forgotten or forgiven,” Patel said.
Bharat Barai / FIA Chicago
The event included recognition of veterans, including Indian-origin servicemen Arvind Akhleshwaria and Sanjay Sharma. Barai administered the oath to the incoming board and encouraged the new leadership to serve with integrity and accountability.
Indian-origin servicemen Arvind Akhleshwaria and Sanjay Sharma / FIA ChicagoBarai also shared an update on the Mokshadham Project, an initiative that aims to establish a culturally appropriate crematory for Indian-American families, enabling last rites to be performed in accordance with Hindu traditions.
Excutive Board oath taking / FIA ChicagoPatel shared images of FIA’s participation in recent protests and solidarity campaigns, along with letters sent to the Indian government. He also called for more respectful approaches to patriotic celebrations, criticizing what he described as the “commercialization” of such events.
The evening included a review of FIA’s recent work, including a candlelight vigil for 13 U.S. service members killed in Afghanistan in 2021, opposition to the City of Chicago’s CAA resolution, a rebuttal to coverage of India in the Chicago Sun-Times, Diwali food drives, and community service programs such as the OCI camp and health fair.
Upcoming events announced include International Yoga Day, the August 15 Independence Day Parade, the Tiranga Car Rally, and a Patriotic Gala.
Related
.JPG)
ADVERTISEMENT
ADVERTISEMENT
ADVERTISEMENT
E Paper
ADVERTISEMENT
.jpg)
Video
Comments
Start the conversation
Become a member of New India Abroad to start commenting.
Sign Up Now
Already have an account? Login