The Indian American Impact Fund, a leading national political organization and prominent voice for Indian and South Asian Americans, proudly launched its 2024 Desi President Artist Ambassador program. This innovative initiative will unite a diverse group of artists who are dedicated to using their creative talents and platforms to amplify the voices of South Asian and AAPI communities, fostering greater voter engagement and support for Kamala Harris for President.
Chaired by artists Ari Afsar and Simi Shah, the program brings together 18 talented South Asian
artists from across the country, including:
– Ari Afsar, Composer & Performer
– Devika Bhise, Actor and Producer
– Ronita Choudhuri-Wade, Painter, Writer
– Nina Davuluri, Filmmaker, Activist, & Former Miss America
– Avish Jain, Singer and Physician
– Rizwan Jagani, Violist and Educator
– Raakhee Mirchandani, Author
– Rehana Lew Mirza, Playwright and Filmmaker
– Rohi Mirza Pandya, Producer
– Ishika Muchhal, Actor, Writer, Singer, and Dancer
– Hitha Palepu, Author of We’re Speaking: The Life Lessons of Kamala Harris
– Sheela Ramesh, Music director, musician, and composer
– Ramita Ravi, Artist & Entrepreneur
– Nikhil Saboo, Actor
– Rajiv Satyal, Comedian
– Dhaval Shah, Photographer
– Simi Shah, Founder & CEO of South Asian Trailblazers
– Ravjot Singh, Filmmaker & Art Activist
Co-Chair Ari Afsar said, “Art changes culture, and culture changes policy. Through this Artist
Ambassador program, we are harnessing our creativity and platforms to spark meaningful
conversations, shift perspectives, and build a movement that elevates South Asian and AAPI
voices. Our art is a tool for activism, and by using it to engage voters, we hope to make a lasting
impact in this election and beyond.
Simi Shah added, “South Asian Americans comprise the fastest-growing immigrant
community in the United States, and our votes will shape electoral outcomes across the nation.
We’re proud to partner with Indian American Impact, a pioneering organization in amplifying
South Asian voices in politics and civic engagement. Through this program, we are committed to
championing leaders who reflect the values and aspirations of our diverse diaspora and who can
mobilize our community in unprecedented ways.”
Chintan Patel, Executive Director of Indian American Impact Fund said, “The Desi President
Artist Ambassador program embodies our commitment to meeting voters where they are — in
their communities, through the art and culture that resonate deeply with them. Art is integral to
South Asian communities; it reflects our stories, our struggles, and our aspirations. By engaging
with voters through creative expression, we are not just driving turnout for this election but also
fostering a deeper, more meaningful connection that will empower our communities for years to
come.”
About Indian American Impact Fund:
The Indian American Impact Fund is dedicated to promoting and elevating the voices of Indian
and South Asian Americans in the political and civic life of the United States. As the
second-largest immigrant community and the largest Asian ethnic group, Indian and South
Asian Americans are poised to be the decisive margin of victory in key races.
Since its inception in 2016, Indian American Impact Fund has endorsed and supported 166
candidates across the country, contributing to the historic rise of Indian and South Asian
American representation in politics. Through strategic investments, grassroots organizing, and
robust voter mobilization and policy advocacy efforts, Impact has marshaled upwards of $20
million, amplifying the voices of South Asian Americans and driving positive change in
communities nationwide. By advocating for inclusivity, equity, and justice, we strive to build a
more inclusive and equitable society.
