Re. Danny Davis presented with recognition plaque by Ranjit Ganguly. Looking on is IADO President Dr. Ram Gajjela
CHICAGO: Over 650 members of Indian community, prominent mainstream Democrats, invited guests and associates came together to celebrate the Indian American Democratic Organization’s (IADO) 31 years of political advocacy and empowerment. This annual event took place at the exquisite Holiday Inn in Skokie, a north side Chicago suburb.
The politically star studded evening began with Northwestern University’s highly acclaimed cappella group – Brown Sugar – singing the Indian and American national anthems.
IADO President Ram Gajjela welcomed everyone and thanked guests for their immense support over the years. Dr. Gajjela has been involved with IADO for over a decade and has served as president of the prestigious organization for six years.
He expressed huge satisfaction that the political officials in attendance included Governor Pat Quinn, Attorney General Lisa Madigan, Congressman Danny Davis, Congresswoman Jan Schakowsky, Cook County Circuit Court Clerk Dorothy Brown, Alderman Ed Smith, Alderman Bernard Stone, State Representative Robyn Gabel and Chairman of the Democratic Party of Du Page Robert Pickett. The only fly in the ointment was the absence of Speaker Nancy Pelosi who could not make it to the event because of other engagements.
The Masters of Ceremonies for the night were Vice President Dr. Ashish Sen and Deepthi Gajjela, a seventh grade student at Lakeview Junior High in Darian, IL.
Keynote speaker, Gov Quinn commended IADO for their political activism in the community. He touched upon issues of investing in education, supporting immigration, the preposterousness of privatizing social security and the vital necessity of healthcare reform. He talked about the importance of remembering the events of 9/11 and how “demonizing a religion is un-American”. In respects to the upcoming elections in November, he mentioned that, “the highest act of a citizen in democracy is voting”. He was loudly cheered when he said, “democracy is not a spectator sport but is a contact sport”. He urged guests not to agonize but to organize if Illinoisans want to keep the Democrats in power.
Congresswoman Schakowsky, in a vibrant blue Indian suit, talked about how getting individuals to the polls is “nitty and gritty and far from glamorous”. She added, “It is a grassroots movement that requires going door-to-door, talking to neighbors, phoning community members and more”.
Rep. Danny Davis reflected on the humble beginnings of IADO and its great sense of hope and enthusiasm. He said, “It has been great to watch its growth and how the group’s influence grows with the passing of each day”.
Ald Stone encouraged individuals to vote and have others vote by “getting out and working, working, and working if they truly want a democracy.” Elected officials, speakers, IADO members and candidates stressed this notion throughout the night.
There were many candidates present at the dinner including Greg Brownfield of the 55th District, Michelle Mussman of the 56th District, Corrine Pierog of the 28th District, Comptroller Candidate David Miller, U.S. and many more. Senate Candidate Alexi Giannoulias could not make it and he apologized for that. There were especially many candidates of the Dupage County attending the banquet. Former Deputy Treasurer Raja Krishnamoorthi was also present and gave an energetic speech.
IADO awarded appreciation plaques to the outstanding individuals that contributed to the organization’s mission and the community’s well being. This included founding member Ranjit Ganguly, Hina Trivedi, Philip Kalayil and Dr Bapu Arekapudi. Senate Candidate Alexi Giannoulias was given Honorary Membership of the organization.
An extraordinary performance by UIC’s Bhangra group, consisting of Aveg Gupta, Nakul Gulati, Amrita Randhawa and Harleen Saini captivated the audience. Organizers and especially, IADO Chief Dr. Ram Gajjela, were very happy with the turnout and the immense success of the evening.
Asian Media USA
