Minnesota lawmakers consider resolution condemning anti-Hindu discrimination
WASHINGTON — A resolution condemning Hinduphobia and anti-Hindu discrimination is gaining momentum in Minnesota, where lawmakers are hearing testimony from community members about incidents targeting Hindu Americans.
Introduced in the Minnesota Senate on March 9, the measure seeks to formally recognize discrimination faced by Hindu Americans while reaffirming the state’s commitment to religious freedom, pluralism, and mutual respect.
More than 400 residents have signed on in support of the resolution, according to advocates, as community leaders and faith groups urge lawmakers to acknowledge and address what they describe as a growing pattern of bias.
The Coalition of Hindus of North America, which has led advocacy efforts, said the initiative reflects sustained engagement by the Hindu community to secure recognition and protections.
During testimony before the Minnesota Senate Judiciary and Public Safety Committee, community leaders pointed to a series of incidents both locally and nationally. These included reported hate speech targeting a temple in Edina, thefts at priests’ homes in Maple Grove, and past cases of vandalism and intimidation involving Hindu institutions.
“Hate without a name often gets ignored,” Neha Markanda, director of the coalition’s Minnesota chapter, told lawmakers. “Institutional recognition from Minnesota lawmakers is critical to reassuring the broader community that their pain is seen — and that together we uphold the promise of safety and dignity for every Minnesotan.”
Supporters submitted a letter signed by more than 400 Minnesotans urging passage of the resolution. The letter called for increased awareness of anti-Hindu bias, improved reporting of hate incidents, and stronger inclusion of Hindu communities in broader diversity and anti-bias initiatives.
The effort has also drawn support from other religious groups. Ethan Roberts, deputy executive director of the Jewish Community Relations Council, told lawmakers that clearly identifying and addressing religious hatred is essential.
“The Hindu community is clearly being targeted. We, as Jews, know the danger when hatred is minimised, dismissed, or left unnamed, and that’s why this resolution matters,” Roberts said.
Advocates pointed to broader national trends, citing incidents including temple shootings, assaults, and online harassment campaigns. A 2022 report from Rutgers University documented anti-Hindu disinformation and harassment on social media and warned of the potential for real-world violence.
Organizers said they have been working with lawmakers and local stakeholders to provide data and raise awareness about the concerns of Hindu Americans in the state.
Supporters of the resolution emphasized that Hindu Americans have long contributed to Minnesota’s social, cultural, and economic life, arguing that ensuring they can practice their faith freely and without fear is essential to maintaining the state’s values of equality and inclusion.
The push in Minnesota comes as states across the country increasingly consider measures aimed at addressing hate crimes and religious bias, particularly as incidents involving minority communities draw heightened attention. (Source: IANS)
