As the Democratic nominee John Kerry campaigns vigorously in the battleground states, the “Women Investing in Change Luncheon” was one of the few events he chose to attend in the Boston area. It was held on July 12th at the Sheraton Boston. John Kerry and Teresa Heinz Kerry addressed the women who were there to show support for Kerry’s candidacy.

Many Indian American women were involved in actively fundraising for the campaign. The leader of the pack was Gail Ahluwalia, a relative newcomer to the area. Gail, was a Host for the John Kerry for President Gala on April 13 in Boston and Vice Chair for the Women’s Lunch for Kerry on July 12. In spite, of her relative newness to the Boston area she was able to raise significant funds for the two events to the tune of about 65K in four months of fund raising. Why did she take such interest in the campaign? “We are proud parents of first generation Indian Americans and our lives are woven into the fabric of 21st Century America. And as Americans it is important we take a more active role to participate in every aspect of American life, which includes the political process. We all went to see Fahrenheit 9/11 and I think if anyone has any doubts why they should support Kerry – they need to see this Film,” says Gail.

Host Chitra R. Stanley, Senior Consultant said it was the first time ever that she had got involved in a political campaign. “I would like to ensure that the diversity in America is preserved. I do not at all approve of Bush’s policies and I am totally against the war,” said Stanely.

“The very fact that Kerry chose to attend the Women’s luncheon shows his commitment to supporting issues important to women,” said Host Gayathri Kachroo who is a lawyer.

Dr. Tejal Desai who is an Associate Professor of Biomedical Engineering at Boston University, felt that Bush did not show strong commitment for scientific research. She felt that investing in research was critical to keeping the edge for America. Poonum Ahluwalia, Executive Director of YES, was very critical of Bush’s budgetary priorities. “They have spent over 60 billion on the war in Iraq. Half that money can go a long way to make a significant impact on ending world hunger,” said Poonum.

Aditi Mehta, a student of Political Science and International Relations at Cornell University said that she was appalled at the current administration's policies towards other countries. She felt that the administration had tarnished the image of America in the world.

“I am here because I really admire all the work that Teresa Heinz Kerry has done,” said Mora Omen, who is a Volunteeer with AID.

“We really must vote for Kerry for he is our best bet for a better future” said Deepti Nijhawan who was a Host for the April 13th event.

What are Kerry chances of winning?” Kerry is going to Win, no doubt about that. If by some twist of fate – Bush wins, then we are going to be in for a very rough ride the next 4 years," said Gail Ahluwalia.

Why should Indian Americans contribute to political campaign. “If Indians are looking for representation in any administration they have to contribute much more to the political parties. We have to put our money where our mouth is,” says Gail Ahluwalia.

Seen at the event were also other members of the community including Sameer Desai, Ranjan Vadapatla, and Sudhikar Reddy (brother of Y.G. Rajshekar Reddy, CM of Andra Pradesh).

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