Events

September 22, 2024

Canada Hindu Vote Launches Civic Engagement Initiative for Canadian Hindus  

Whitby, ON – September 22, 2024

On September 22, 2024, Canada Hindu Vote, a new civic engagement initiative, was officially launched in Whitby, Ontario. The organization’s mission is to empower Canadian Hindu voters to actively participate in the democratic process at all levels of government, regardless of party affiliations. 

The founding members, Srikanth Mylavarapu, Haritha Agastyaraju, Amrit Pal Singh and Harsha Suresh emphasized that voting is a fundamental privilege, one not universally enjoyed. However, they highlighted a troubling trend: a declining voter turnout within the Canadian Hindu community. Canada Hindu Vote aims to reverse this trend by promoting civic awareness and education.

The organization will focus on educating voters about the different levels of government, election cycles, voter registration, and the importance of understanding municipal governance. The goal is to foster greater political engagement within the Canadian Hindu community.

Liberal MP Chandra Arya, a highly respected leader from Nepean, delivered a powerful address, stressing the critical importance of voting. He urged the Hindu diaspora to become more engaged in civic life and to prepare the next generation for leadership roles, ensuring stronger representation for Hindus at all levels of government.

Prominent industrialist, philanthropist, and President of the Canadian National Council of Hindus, Mr. Ramesh Chotai, offered his full support for the initiative, commending the organization for championing the most essential democratic right—the right to vote.

Pandit Roopnauth Sharma, a distinguished spiritual leader of Ram Mandir Mississauga, called on Hindu organizations and temples to actively promote civic engagement within their congregations.

Community youth leader Shawn Binda emphasized the importance of preserving Hindu identity while upholding family values and social responsibility, highlighting the vital role Hindus play in the broader Canadian society.

Darshan Maharaja, a renowned blogger, journalist, and political commentator, shared insights from Hindu philosophy, underscoring the collective responsibility of the Hindu community to participate in the democratic process.

The launch of Canada Hindu Vote comes at a critical time, as Hindu temples have increasingly been targeted by hate crimes and vandalism. The organization aims to empower the Hindu community through active political engagement, ensuring their voices are heard and their concerns addressed.

 For more information about Canada Hindu Vote, please visit www.canadahinduvote.ca or contact Srikanth Mylavarapu at reachcanadahinduvote@gmail.com.