Essex County Democratic Committee Honors Falguni Pandya with Women of Excellence Award

May 22 :
West Orange, New Jersey's Essex County Democratic Committee presented Indian-American activist Falguni Pandya with the "Women of Excellence Award" not long ago. At the Wilshire Grand Hotel, Pandya was feted with Susan Vezza and Khalifah Shabazz by Jacqueline Jones, wife of New Jersey and Essex County Democratic Party chair Leroy Jones, Jr.

In attendance were Rosy Bagolie, an assemblywoman and a former member of the Livingston Township Council, Mikie Sherrill, a congresswoman, and Ketan Bhuptani and Shawn Klein, two current council members.

You inspire youngsters to take pride in their history, and we applaud your unselfish contributions and devoted dedication to them. We are grateful that you brought about a world where love, wisdom, and harmony flourish. Your example of generosity, faith, compassion, and civic participation serves as an inspiration to all of us," said the plaque that honoured Pandya.

By referencing old Hindu ideals like Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam (the world is one family) and Yatra Naryastu Pujyante, Ramante Tatra Devataha (where women are honoured, divinity blossoms), Pandya stressed the need of strengthening women and girls in her acceptance speech.

For his part in establishing "an exemplary track record of celebrating diversity and uplifting people of all backgrounds," Pandya praised chairman Jones.

She spoke about how inspiring it was to see political politicians standing with community leaders and telling them they could make a change.

The necessity of women recognising their inherent strength, supporting each other, complementing masculine forces, and recognising the value of male allies was emphasised by Pandya, who spoke of her upbringing in a goddess culture and being around a "intelligent and fierce" grandmother.

Pandya has advocated for the rights and representation of Asian American and Pacific Islander populations through her appointments to the NJ-India Commission and the AAPI Commission, which were made by New Jersey Governor Phil Murphy. Additionally, she leads the NJ Democrats Hindu Caucus and serves as a representative for Hindu clergy in the Livingston Interfaith Clergy Association.