The American Pakistan Foundation hosted a discussion of the political lives of South Asian Americans. Waves of immigrant communities coming to the United States have gained social and political ground, fostering unique experiences of migration and identity. This webinar discussed how class, religion, nation of origin, language, and other characteristics shape the individual and group experiences of the South Asian American community and how major events, like the 9/11 attacks, reshape identity and community mobilization.

The conversation included a presentation by Drew University’s Dr. Sangay Mishra on his book Desis Divided: The Political Lives of South Asian Americans. Dr. Mishra conducted extensive research with Pakistani, Indian, and Bangladeshi-American communities across the United States. Dr. Mishra was joined in conversation by Dr. James Witte, Director of the Institute for Immigration Research at George Mason University and APF President Shamila N. Chaudhary who discussed APF’s research on civic engagement in the Pakistani American community.