Desi Day of Action 2025
By Rish Oberoi, TX State Director for Indian American Impact
In March, dozens of South Asian Texans from across the state gathered in Austin for Desi Day of Action 2025—a statewide advocacy day organized by SAAVETX Education Fund, with proud sponsorship and support from South Asian Impact Foundation. This marks the second time SAAVE and Impact have partnered up during the Texas Legislative Session. For many participants, it was their first time walking the halls of the Texas Capitol, speaking directly with lawmakers and their staff, to advocate for issues that uniquely impact South Asian communities.
From the early morning bus rides to a packed afternoon of legislative visits, the day was a resounding success. Advocates traveled from Houston, Dallas, Austin, and beyond to meet face-to-face with elected officials, raise awareness about South Asian policy priorities, and grow a united, empowered coalition ready to make change in Texas.
Dr. Suleman Lalani, State Representative from House District 76 and Co-Chair of the AAPI Caucus, honored the occasion by presenting House Resolution 602, officially recognizing March 25, 2025, as Desi Day of Action at the Texas Capitol. The resolution acknowledged the significant contributions of South Asian Texans—business owners, educators, healthcare professionals, community leaders, and more—in building a stronger, more inclusive Texas.
“Most of our attendees had never advocated at the Capitol before,” said Chanda Parbhoo, Founder of SAAVETX Education Fund. “Our biggest success wasn’t just the legislation or the meetings—it was expanding the SAAVETX family and building connections across the state. The energy and support we received from representatives and staff was incredible.”
The Day at a Glance
The day began before sunrise, as participants boarded early morning buses from Sugar Land, where they were greeted with coffee, breakfast, and a voter education activity to kick things off. By mid-morning, advocates had arrived at the Capitol and gathered for a warm welcome by State Representative Salman Bhojani and a training session by the SAAVETXEF Team.
From there, attendees fanned out across the Capitol for a full day of advocacy. They visited legislative offices in both the morning and afternoon, engaging in dozens of meaningful conversations with lawmakers and staff on issues like healthcare access, education equity, small business support, language access, and cultural representation.
A midday break at the Capitol Grill gave participants a chance to recharge before heading back out for more meetings. One of the most moving moments came in the House Gallery, where legislators formally recognized Desi Day of Action with a proclamation from the floor.
Building Momentum
Desi Day of Action wasn’t just a day, it was a statement. Nearly 100 South Asians showed up, many for the first time, to make sure we’re seen, heard, and taken seriously.
We built new connections, found our voice, and left with a clear takeaway: we belong in these rooms.
South Asian Impact Foundation is committed to keeping that momentum going—organizing, advocating, and showing up where it counts.
We’re here. We’re ready. And we’re not going anywhere.
Stay tuned for ways to get involved and support our growing movement.