The entire Hindus for Human Rights team wishes you a very Happy Thanksgiving! 🍂

We are deeply grateful for every member of our incredible community who has stood with us in our collective fight for peace, justice, and human rights.

We are thankful for those who reflect on the complexities of this holiday, choosing to celebrate, not celebrate, or re-imagine it in ways that center friendship, inclusivity, and justice.

We give thanks for our rich culture, our vibrant and diverse diaspora, and the unwavering dedication of individuals who tirelessly work toward a better world. Your support and commitment inspire us every day.

As we approach the year's end, we are reminded of the challenges and uncertainties the year ahead may bring. Please commemorate this Thanksgiving with a year-end donation, so HfHR can remain fearless and robust in our resistance to the forces that divide.

Wishing you and your loved ones a joyous Thanksgiving filled with love and gratitude.

On December 7th, 2024, be sure to join us for the annual Hindus for Human Rights Virtual Gala featuring incredible performers, musicians, comedians, and our Swami Agnivesh Memorial Awardees. 

2024 has been a year of incredible growth and success for us at Hindus for Human Rights, and we are excited to continue our work and grow our progressive community throughout 2025.

Join us at our gala to celebrate wins and look into the future!

Hindus for Human Rights strongly condemns the killing of protesters by police in Sambhal, Uttar Pradesh. The protesters, largely Muslim according to reports so far, were opposing the controversial survey of the historic Shahi Jama Masjid, initiated amidst rising tensions fueled by Hindutva groups chanting provocative slogans.

The victims were shot and killed during clashes sparked by the survey. Family members allege that the deaths resulted from police firing, a claim partially corroborated by the Moradabad Divisional Commissioner, who acknowledged that three victims sustained fatal bullet injuries. The brutal incident has left the community in grief and outrage.

We will continue to follow this complex story as it evolves and as we learn more.

Join us at at Rhizome DC on December 4th for a screening and discussion of the documentary, While We Watched, which follows the fight for press freedom in India through the story of TV journalist Ravish Kumar. Hosted by Bol Coop, Hindus for Human Rights, and Rhizome DC! 

Our Executive Director Sunita Viswanath will be co-leading a workshop at ICNY's 42nd Rabbi Marshall T. Mever Retreat on Wednesday, December 4th. 

This retreat brings together religious and civic leaders from New York City and beyond to explore the vital relationships between faith and democratic governance. In today’s polarized political climate, it is more important than ever for diverse faith leaders to promote civic values and democratic participation. The goal of this retreat is to come together following the 2024 presidential election – and in advance of the 2025 NYC mayoral election – to highlight the importance of voting, and the appropriate roles of faith communities in the electoral process.

The story of Kalavati Devi unfolds in a transformative era for India, where the country grappled with the weight of colonial rule, social inequities, and the stirrings of independence. Born in 1908, during a time when deeply ingrained societal norms dictated rigid roles for women, Kalavati Devi’s life broke barriers and redefined devotion as a path of social progress and inclusivity. She emerged from this historical milieu as a luminous figure in the Bhakti tradition, blending personal faith with a broader commitment to communal harmony and service.

In their latest episode, Georgetown University's The Bridge Initiative speaks with Hindus for Human Rights' Director of Advocacy and Organizing, Pranay Somayajula, and Safa Ahmed of the Indian American Muslim Culture to discuss how Hindu nationalism impacts the Indian American community. 

The 2025 Hindus for Human Rights calendar showcases original artwork inspired by Hindu deities and saints cherished by immigrant, refugee, and diaspora communities. It celebrates the rich diversity of Hindu traditions across history and the globe. If you're already an HfHR member and would like more, we offer additional calendars at a reduced cost.

Every year we love hearing from you all about the HfHR Calendar -- the theme we've chosen, the art that speaks to you, your thoughts and hopes for the year ahead.  So drop us a note -- add in a picture of you with the calendar - it's kind of an HfHR tradition!

Donald Trump’s victory in the U.S. presidential election marks a profoundly challenging moment for human rights and democracy, both domestically and globally. At HfHR, we are gravely concerned about the impact of this outcome on immigrant rights, reproductive freedoms, and international Peace, as well as the empowerment of far-right movements across communities. We remain steadfast in our commitment to justice, compassion, and human dignity, joining hands with marginalized communities in the U.S. and around the world.

Our latest episode dives deep into Hindu identity, political responsibility, and global perspectives on justice. Join Raj and Priya in a thought-provoking dialogue that tackles complex issues—from the role of figures like Modi to media representation and empathy for global struggles. Plus, explore our new discussion guide, designed to inspire meaningful conversations on how we relate to politics and each other. Don’t miss this essential episode that encourages us to think critically and engage with one another on issues that shape our communities. Watch now and start the discussion!

Our Executive Director Sunita Viswanath shared a powerful prayer inspired by Lord Ganesha at a multi-faith service at St. Paul & St. Andrew United Methodist Church in New York City for a moving multi-faith prayer service, a part of the Unity Walk initiative. The event, jointly organized by ICNY and Union Theological Seminary,  followed the recent U.S. elections and sought to bring together people of different backgrounds to reflect on the challenges of our time and to inspire collective action for a better world.