From Hate to Hope: South Asian Resilience, Resistance, and Thriving Through History

From Hate to Hope: South Asian Resilience, Resistance, and Thriving Through History

Description

On May 8th, 2025, in recognition of Asian Pacific Heritage Month, SAAPRI and SAAJO hosted a session exploring the history of hate and discrimination faced by South Asians in the United States, highlighting the resilience and resistance that have defined our communities. Our speakers examined the roots and evolution of anti-South Asian sentiment, uncovering how these historical narratives continue to influence present-day experiences and inspire collective thriving. This was the third session in our Engaged Communities Series, a year-long initiative focused on empowering our communities with knowledge and tools to advocate for their rights.

Historical Struggles, Ongoing Impact

  • Explored key moments in U.S. history that shaped anti-South Asian sentiment and how these legacies continue to influence policies, public perception, and lived experiences today.

Stories of Resistance and Solidarity

  • Learned how South Asians have historically fought back against exclusion, violence, and systemic discrimination, forging alliances and shaping civil rights movements.

Building a Future Beyond Hate

  • Discovered how communities today are leveraging history to drive advocacy, foster belonging, and create a more inclusive and thriving future for all.

Panelists

Manjusha Kulkarni

Stop AAPI Hate

Amandeep S. Sidhu

Winston & Strawn LLP, Partner
Sikh Coalition, Co-Founder

Anirvan Chatterjee
Berkeley South Asian radical history walking tour
Ann Lata Kayalil
SAAPRI Co-Founder

Thank you to all those who attended our event! If you were not able to attend, you can access the recording below.

Event Recording