LANSING — State Rep. Padma Kuppa (D-Troy) hosted the inaugural Indian American Legislative Day last week in the Capitol Rotunda to recognize and celebrate the leadership of Indian Americans in public policy and higher education throughout Michigan. Many current elected officials and state legislators were in attendance, including Lt. Gov. Garlin Gilchrist. Consul General of India from Chicago, Shri Sudhakar Dalela, served as a special guest and was presented with a state of Michigan flag previously flown over the Capitol.
“I am honored to share this special celebration with my fellow colleagues, members of the Indian American community, and such inspiring leaders in education and public service,” Kuppa said. “I may have been born in the largest democracy in the world, but I chose to make the oldest democracy my home. Without the support and encouragement from the Indian American community since I and my family made Michigan our home over two decades ago, I would not be the person or legislator that I am today. I will always fight to amplify the voices of our community.”
House Democratic Leader Christine Greig (D-Farmington Hills) served as a co-host of this historic event, with the Honorable Sam Singh as the Master of Ceremony. Singh, former House Democratic Leader, was also the first Indian American to serve in the Michigan Legislature. Other educator honorees included Dr. Anil Kumar, Wayne State University Board of Governors; Dr. Virinder Moudgil, President of Lawrence Technological University; and Dr. Satish Udpa, Acting President of Michigan State University.
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