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NORTH AMERICAN Newsline JULY 03, 2026 | The Indian Eye 20

Indian American Christian Delegation Holds

Dialogue with Tom Suozzi, Congressman (NY)

on Democracy and Religious Freedom

OUR BUREAU

Washington, DC
A
delegation of leaders from the
Indian American Christian
community recently met with
Congressman Tom Suozzi and ex-
changed views on a range of issues
affecting the community both in the
United States and in India. Christians
are estimated to comprise nearly 20
percent of the Indian diaspora in the
United States. While most Indian
American Christians trace their roots
to Kerala, the community represents
virtually every state and region of In-
dia and has made significant contribu-
tions to American society.
Welcoming Congressman Suozzi,
George Abraham praised the Con-
gressman for his principled and inde-
pendent approach to public service.
“The Indian American community
has long admired your thoughtful
and balanced approach to gover-
nance,” Abraham said. “Your willing-
ness to address difficult issues with
candor, common sense, and a spirit
of bipartisanship has earned you the
respect of many Americans, includ-
ing members of the Indian American
community. At a time when political
discourse has become increasingly
polarized, your emphasis on practi-
cal solutions and cooperation across
party lines is particularly valued.”
Abraham further noted the Con-
gressman’s longstanding relationship
with the Indian American communi-
ty in the Tri-State area and his con-
sistent support for the well-being and
advancement of all segments of the the erosion of religious freedom in to fundamental freedoms and the the discussions were Bishop John-
community. India. Members of the delegation rule of law. cy Itty, Rev. Fr. John Thomas, Rev.
“We are mindful of your enduring emphasized that India and the Unit- Participants at the meeting com- Itty Abraham, Rev. Wilson Jose, Rev.
friendship with the Indian American ed States, as strategic partners and mended Congressman Suozzi as a Sabu Varghese, Mr. George Koshy,
community and your commitment to vibrant democracies, share a respon- pragmatic, middle-of-the-road lead- and Rev. Jacob George, Rev. Sunny
the success of its members,” Abra- sibility to uphold and promote the er who consistently seeks bipartisan Philip and Mr. George Abraham
ham added. “Indian Americans have universal values of democracy, hu- and commonsense solutions to the The meeting concluded with a
made substantial contributions to the man rights, pluralism, and religious challenges facing the nation. They reaffirmation of the importance of
economic, cultural, scientific, and civ- liberty. expressed appreciation for his will- continued dialogue and cooperation
ic life of this nation, and we are grate- The delegation underscored the ingness to listen to diverse viewpoints between elected officials and com-
ful for your continued engagement importance of safeguarding these and engage constructively with com- munity leaders in addressing con-
and support over the years.” principles and stressed that strong munity leaders on issues of mutual cerns affecting Indian Americans
During the discussions, partici- bilateral relations between the two concern. The meeting wished him and promoting the values of democ-
pants expressed grave concern over countries should be rooted not only success in the upcoming elections racy, religious freedom, and human
what they described as the declining in economic and strategic coopera- and pledged their continuing support. dignity both in the United States and
state of democratic institutions and tion but also in a shared commitment Among those participating in abroad.

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