Indian American Impact Fund Launches Artist Ambassador Program to Mobilize South Asian and AAPI Voters for 2024

Washington, DC— Yesterday, Indian American Impact Fund, a leading national political organization and prominent voice for Indian and South Asian Americans, proudly launched its 2024 Desi President Artist Ambassador program. This innovative initiative will unite a diverse group of artists who are dedicated to using their creative talents and platforms to amplify the voices of South Asian and AAPI communities, fostering greater voter engagement and support for Kamala Harris for President.

Chaired by artists Ari Afsar and Simi Shah, the program brings together 18 talented South Asian artists from across the country, including:

• Ari Afsar, Composer & Performer  
• Devika Bhise, Actor and Producer
• Ronita Choudhuri-Wade, Painter, Writer
• Nina Davuluri, Filmmaker, Activist, & Former Miss America
• Avish Jain, Singer and Physician
• Rizwan Jagani, Violist and Educator
• Raakhee Mirchandani, Author
• Rehana Lew Mirza, Playwright and Filmmaker
• Rohi Mirza Pandya, Producer
• Ishika Muchhal, Actor, Writer, Singer, and Dancer
• Hitha Palepu, Author of We’re Speaking: The Life Lessons of Kamala Harris
• Sheela Ramesh, Music director, Musician, and Composer
• Ramita Ravi, Artist & Entrepreneur
• Nikhil Saboo, Actor
• Rajiv Satyal, Comedian
• Dhaval Shah, Photographer
• Simi Shah, Founder & CEO of South Asian Trailblazers
• Ravjot Singh, Filmmaker & Art Activist

Co-Chair Ari Afsar said, “Art changes culture, and culture changes policy. Through this Artist Ambassador program, we are harnessing our creativity and platforms to spark meaningful conversations, shift perspectives, and build a movement that elevates South Asian and AAPI voices. Our art is a tool for activism, and by using it to engage voters, we hope to make a lasting impact in this election and beyond.

Simi Shah added, “South Asian Americans comprise the fastest-growing immigrant community in the United States, and our votes will shape electoral outcomes across the nation. We’re proud to partner with Indian American Impact, a pioneering organization in amplifying South Asian voices in politics and civic engagement. Through this program, we are committed to championing leaders who reflect the values and aspirations of our diverse diaspora and who can mobilize our community in unprecedented ways.”

Chintan Patel, Executive Director of Indian American Impact Fund said, “The Desi President Artist Ambassador program embodies our commitment to meeting voters where they are — in their communities, through the art and culture that resonate deeply with them. Art is integral to South Asian communities; it reflects our stories, our struggles, and our aspirations. By engaging with voters through creative expression, we are not just driving turnout for this election but also fostering a deeper, more meaningful connection that will empower our communities for years to come.”

About Indian American Impact Fund:

The Indian American Impact Fund is dedicated to promoting and elevating the voices of Indian and South Asian Americans in the political and civic life of the United States. As the second-largest immigrant community and the largest Asian ethnic group, Indian and South Asian Americans are poised to be the decisive margin of victory in key races.

Since its inception in 2016, Indian American Impact Fund has endorsed and supported 166 candidates across the country, contributing to the historic rise of Indian and South Asian American representation in politics. Through strategic investments, grassroots organizing, and robust voter mobilization and policy advocacy efforts, Impact has marshaled upwards of $20 million, amplifying the voices of South Asian Americans and driving positive change in communities nationwide. By advocating for inclusivity, equity, and justice, we strive to build a more inclusive and equitable society.

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