As the United States gears up for its 2024 Presidential elections, with Kamala Harris and Donald Trump locked in a fierce battle for the White House, a significant step has been taken to ensure inclusivity for diverse communities. In a historic move, Bengali has been added to the list of languages that will be offered on the ballot paper, alongside English, Spanish, Chinese, and Korean. This decision, stemming from a lawsuit regarding language access, reflects the increasing recognition of the growing Asian Indian population in the US, particularly in New York City.
New York City, under a legal mandate, is obligated to provide voting materials in Bengali at designated polling sites. This includes ballot papers and other essential resources, ensuring that Bengali-speaking voters have full access to the electoral process. The inclusion of Bengali is a testament to the power of advocacy and the legal fight for linguistic rights for minority groups.
The decision has been met with widespread approval from members of the Bengali community. Subhshesh, a Bengali sales agent in Times Square, expressed his happiness, stating that this initiative will help his father and many others in the community who are more comfortable in their native language.
Dr. Avinash Gupta, President of the Federation of Indian Association, emphasized the importance of this step in ensuring the participation of Indian Americans in the democratic process. He believes that offering Bengali on the ballot will encourage greater voter turnout and empower the Indian community to have their voices heard.
The 2024 US Presidential election represents a crucial moment in American history, and the inclusion of Bengali on the ballot highlights the country’s commitment to inclusivity and accessibility for its diverse population. It serves as a reminder of the growing influence of the Asian Indian community and their increasing participation in the political landscape.
