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The Hindu American Foundation
(HAF) wrote a letter in response to a NY Times article -- 'In Jews, Indian-Americans See a Role Model in Activism' on Tuesday, Oct 2, 2007 . The article misrepresented views expressed in an interview with the HAF legal counsel.
Dear Editor,
The Hindu and Jewish diaspora have much more in common than the
continuing
struggles against terror in India and Israel. It should be noted that
I had
discussed that Hindu and Jewish engagement is predicated much more on a
shared adherence to ancient, pluralistic and non-proselytizing
religious
traditions during my interview.
In the article, the faith-based advocacy of the Hindu American
Foundation
that I represent, was contrasted with "non-sectarian" activities of
other
groups. Religious affiliation cannot be presumed to be sectarian--an
illiberal term implying bigotry. Forging ties with Jewish groups is
not a
zero sum game and the Foundation is heavily involved in a wide range of
interfaith collaborations.
Lastly, as a non-profit organization, the Foundation does not lobby
officials for any legislation, and our efforts are limited to educating
legislators as to issues of importance for Hindu Americans.
Sincerely,
Suhag A. Shukla, Esq.
Legal Counsel,
Hindu American Foundation
Kensington, MD
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