An Indian man is beheaded in Dallas and the news is rampant now. Though the reason is attributed to clash of ego, the racism angle cannot be ignored at this moment.
Going back, a recent social media post by Dallas resident Daniel Keene has ignited sharp debate over immigration and cultural assimilation.
Sharing a video of festivities with loud music and dancing on the streets, Keene remarked, “We have to cancel the H-1Bs. I want my kids to grow up in America. Not India.” His statement, paired with visuals of the celebrations, triggered polarized reactions online.
Supporters of Keene’s view stressed the need to preserve American values and avoid what they saw as cultural intrusion. Many praised his stance, insisting that children should be raised with strong patriotism and attachment to the United States.
On the other hand, critics highlighted America’s strength as a melting pot of cultures. They argued that immigrant children should learn both American values and their heritage, pointing out that diversity enriches society.
Well, but any religious festivities should happen at home without making public hungama as the situation is sensitive now a days.
Indian diaspora living in USA should be extra careful now as the Republican Government holds many conservatives in the system. It is always better for Indians to underplay certain emotions and should avoid public display of strength.
Be it religios processions or film releases with fans making noise at theatres for their favorite stars, all this adds to the discomfort of the fellow Americans.
Similarly, some misguided youth and students displaying political flags of their favorite parties from India on the dais of convocations are bringing disgrace to the community. Such acts should be avoided.
As if that were not enough, shoplifting crimes and other felonies by Indians are also catching US attention and raising disgust. Recently, an Indian woman was caught shoplifting from a Target store in the US.
Indian NRIs need to be doubly careful in America, as every impression the community makes abroad directly affects Indo-US relations and may even trigger racist backlash.
If the present Republican Government brings in any new law against Indian immigrants based on these incidents, that would effect many others. So NRIs! be cautious and advise the fellow community members to be on right path.
Nothing can be taken for granted now. There is growing USA population which is under frustration for different reasons, be it inflation and lack of jobs. The drug and gun culture is taking the society further down.