On February 23^rd, at the historic Depot Square in Lexington, four Indian Americans made their debut for local elections at a meet and greet session of the candidates that was organized by the Indian American Forum for Political Education (IAFPE-Massachusetts Chapter) and Indian Americans of Lexington ( IAL)  as part of its Education program and civic responsibility . The candidates were Saatvik Ahluwalia, for Board of Selectman in the town of Lexington, Dr. Dinesh Patel, Anoop Garg and Ms. Deepika Sawhney running for Town Meeting Member positions in their precincts.

Anupam Wali, President-Elect of IAFPE opened the afternoon outlining the mission of  IAFPE of empowering  Indian Americans politically by raising civic consciousness and increasing participation in community affairs and the mainstream political process. He said that it was a matter of pride that Saatvik Ahluwalia, who was earlier part of their internship program, has shown passion for public service by taking the first step in standing for the position. He also introduced the other three candidates and said it was a historic moment for this town. IAL Board member Anu Saxena talked about IAL mission of serving the cultural and civic needs of the local community and some of its recent activities of giving back to its residents. This included contributing to the senior center, FISH, Library and the Food pantry. She congratulated the candidates and wished them on behalf of IAL all success.

Narain Bhatia, a longtime resident of Lexington and an active member of  the town shared the findings of a  recent study that came out of the the town's report on demographic change.It showed that Asian Americans in Lexington are the 4th largest in the State and 30% of its students comes from this communities. Bhatia also urged that Indian Americans must involve themselves in civic affairs in greater numbers if they wish to make an impact on issues that will affect them locally.

Saatvik Ahluwalia addressed the audience and talked about the issues that he would tackle which included keeping seniors in town, tax breaks through businesses and addressing  the overcrowding at schools. Deepika Sawhney as President of the Fiske PTA talked about inclusiveness in schools and the need for parents to be more actively engaged in the process. Anoop Garg said as as a long time resident he was spurred to get involved and hoped that he would make a contribution with his experience in the corporate world. Dr Patel who was unable to come to the meeting  expressed his desire to make a difference through his civic participation.

March 3^rd is the voting day in Lexington, so all residents are encouraged to go out and vote.

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