From the BBC: Is there any one way to be Hindu? |
In this compelling video, BBC Hindi explores the complex landscape of contemporary Hinduism, particularly through the Satya Dharam Samvad event in Haridwar last September, where over 25 Hindu leaders convened. This piece explores the interplay between traditional beliefs and modern interpretations of the faith. It delves into how Hinduism, with its inherent diversity and inclusivity, can offer a counter-narrative to the growing tide of nationalism. |
WE'RE HIRING: Bay Area Organizer |
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| We are seeking a part-time Bay Area Community Organizer, based in the San Francisco Bay Area, who will provide a progressive Hindu presence and mobilize grassroots advocacy and campaigns on the West Coast with a particular emphasis on California. Working closely with our coalition partner organizations and allies, you will conduct outreach to businesses, South Asian American organizations, leaders, and community spaces to build relationships and cultivate the development of an HfHR chapter in the Bay Area. This position will report to the Director of Research and Advocacy Campaigns. |
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From Philadelphia to D.C. -- a Pilgrimage for Peace |
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| The HfHR team was part of the Pilgrimage for Peace from start to finish, amplifying the Hindu call for an immediate ceasefire with deep reflection and high energy. Kicking off the Pilgrimage in Philadelphia HfHR's own, Ramya Vijaya, delivered a moving messages. Ramya's words resonated with the spirit of Hindus for Human Rights, setting a powerful tone of allyship for the journey ahead. The grand finale in D.C. was nothing short of electric, with our Director of Research and Advocacy, Pranay Somayajula, taking the stage. Pranay spoke with passion, eloquence, and inspiration. His speech powerfully wove together the foundational principles of the Hindu faith with the urgent need for a ceasefire. Listen to their moving speeches yourself. |
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Desh Videsh Conversation Series |
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Our recent Desh Videsh Conversation Series offered an incisive look at the parallels between Zionism and Hindu Nationalism, with speakers like Ellen Brotsky, Zeiad Abbas Shamrouch, Thomas Hansen, and Ramya Vijaya enriching the dialogue with their diverse insights on activism, anthropology, and economics.
The discussion took an impactful turn when Waeil Elbhassi, in an unscheduled but pivotal moment, was invited to join the conversation. He is part of a lawsuit filed by Palestinian human rights groups against U.S. leaders, including President Biden, for their role in the Israeli government’s actions against Palestinians in Gaza. His contribution added a profound dimension to our discussion on global human rights. |
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Transnational Repression and Minority Censorship |
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We released a critical report in partnership with SALDEF, Equality Labs, and IAMC: 'Virtually Vulnerable: Exposing the Human Cost of Digital Harassment'. The report covers the BJP IT Cell's role in controlling online narratives, suppression of the Sikh diaspora, strategic misinformation campaigns against targeted communities and activists, and the failures of Big Tech in upholding caste equity. |
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The Global VHP's Trail of Violence
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We are proud to be part of Savera, a dynamic anti-caste, multi-racial coalition that has just released a crucial report on the global Hindu supremacist movement. This groundbreaking study specifically examines the Vishwa Hindu Parishad of America's connections to hate violence in India and its links with far-right groups in the US. |
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Statement of Support for the Farmer's Protest |
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Hindus for Human Rights calls on the Indian government to engage in constructive dialogue with farmers and respect their fundamental rights. Rooted in the values of non-violence and righteousness, HfHR stands in solidarity with the farmers' peaceful fight for economic justice. |
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| London academic Nitasha Kaul barred from entering India
Dr. Nitasha Kaul, a professor at the University of Westminister, was denied entry into India after being invited to a Karnataka government event. Upon arrival in Bengaluru, she was placed in a holding cell for 24 hours and deported without explanation. The incident sparked criticism of India's reactions towards freedom of expression, highlighting the irony of India's claim that it is the world's largest democracy. |
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| US faith leaders call for a ceasefire. Will President Biden listen?
As the United States government resists calls for a ceasefire in Gaza, a coalition of faith leaders, artists and activists in the US are on a 240km (150-mile) journey to Washington DC, in what they’re calling a “Pilgrimage for Peace.” Their goal is to convince the administration of US President Joe Biden to halt all weapons funding to Israel and push for a permanent ceasefire in Palestine. |
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| SALDEF Releases Groundbreaking Report on Transnational Repression and Minority Censorship
This in-depth study examines the escalating problem of online harassment and censorship, specifically targeting the Sikh diaspora and allied communities like secular Hindus, Indian Muslims, and Dalits. |
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| A Party Divided By Faith
In a Harvard Political Review article, Hindus for Human Rights' Policy Director Ria Chakrabarty discusses the political repackaging of Hinduism in U.S. politics. She critiques efforts to align Hinduism with monotheistic views for political gain, highlighting its potential disconnect with the religion's true diversity and flexibility. |
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| Immigrants do work that might not otherwise get done -- bolstering the U.S. economy
In this article, HfHR's own Ramya Vijaya highlights how immigrants are vital to addressing the current labor market shortage. With the U.S. facing a significant gap in workforce numbers, her analysis, backed by solid research and data, debunks xenophobic myths and affirms the important role of immigrants in American society. |
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Exploring South Asian Feminist Thought |
As we leave Black History Month and approach Women's History Month, let's hold onto the unique relationship between Indian independence and the Civil Rights Movement. Just as the collaboration between MLK and Gandhi led to greater world peace, the relationship between Black feminism and South Asian feminist thought changed the landscape of women's rights today. From literary theorist Gayatri Spivak to anti-caste feminist activist Tarabai Shinde, the dedication, courage, and intelligence of South Asian women activists have yielded invaluable contributions to our culture. As we progress through 2024, let's uphold the legacies of the women who have changed our world for the better by advocating for women's rights and reproductive rights in every corner of the globe -- whether it be calling for a ceasefire in Palestine, protecting the right to safe and legal abortions in the United States, or supporting legislation to end violence against women and girls in India.
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HfHR's Monthly Newsletter serves as your guide to our progressive Hindu advocacy over the past month! Read on to learn about our webinars, podcasts, articles, advocacy updates, anti-caste initiatives, and more.
Let us know what you think of our monthly recap! If you have ideas for news items you want to see included, or suggestions for action items or articles to highlight, let us know with the button below. |
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