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Indian Cultural Association wins Howard County 2025 human rights award
The Indian Cultural Association was recognized by the Howard County Human Rights Commission and the Office of Human Rights & Equity for advancing civic engagement and cross-cultural inclusion in Maryland.
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Staff Reporter - Tue, 28, Oct 2025
- 13:01 EDT
- 20
Indian Cultural Association (ICA) received the 2025 Human Rights Awards / Courtesy: ICA
The Indian Cultural Association (ICA) received the 2025 Human Rights Award from the Howard County Human Rights Commission and the Office of Human Rights & Equity.
The recognition presented during the annual ceremony on Oct. 23, 2025, also included an official citation from the Maryland General Assembly.
“This recognition reflects the collective spirit of our community—elders, youth, volunteers, and partners—who co-create spaces where every voice matters and every tradition is celebrated,” said Niti Srivastava, executive director of ICA.
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“At the heart of ICA’s mission is seva, the principle of selfless service,” added Sanjay Srivastava, president of ICA. “This award affirms our belief that cultural celebration is a powerful form of civic engagement. It underscores that cultural pride and human rights advocacy go hand in hand.”
Founded in 2018, ICA focuses on humanities-based programs, youth leadership, and multicultural initiatives promoting cross-cultural understanding.
The organization also hosts the 'Festival of India,' the largest multicultural celebration in the DMV region, drawing more than 100,000 participants annually.
During the COVID-19 pandemic, ICA mobilized over 500 volunteers to distribute more than 3.5 million pounds of food through its FEED HoCo initiative.
The association has earned multiple accolades, including the #MDStrong Award from the Governor of Maryland, the AAPI Heritage Award from the Comptroller of Maryland, and the AARP Maryland Andrus Award.
Niti and Sanjay Srivastava, executive director and president of the Indian Cultural Association (ICA), respectively / Courtesy: ICA
It was also recognized by the Baltimore Ravens Honor Row and voted Best Volunteer Organization in the Baltimore Sun’s Best of Howard poll. Its flagship Festival of India has been named Best Festival in Howard County for three consecutive years.
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