Vikrant Shekhawat : Nov 03, 2024, 09:22 AM
US Presidential Election: In view of the upcoming presidential election in America, the current Vice President and Democratic Party candidate Kamala Harris recently celebrated the festival of Diwali. During this, she not only talked about the importance of Diwali, but also made a sentimental mention of India and her childhood experiences. Kamala Harris told that her mother played an important role in keeping her and her sister connected with Indian culture and heritage. She shared that almost every other year she used to go to India to celebrate Diwali, where she used to spend time with her maternal grandparents and maternal uncle.Indian heritage and importance of DiwaliKamala Harris expressed her feelings during Diwali in an op-ed for a South Asian publication called 'The Juggernaut'. She told that it is a matter of pride for her to organize Diwali at the Vice President's residence. She said that Diwali is not just a festival, but also a celebration of the rich history, culture and heritage of South Asian American immigrants. On this occasion, she mentioned her mother and told that at the age of 19, her mother came to America alone from India and also dedicated her life in the field of cancer research. Her mother's struggle taught Kamala and her sister to feel proud of their heritage.Grandfather's teachings on democracy and civil rightsKamala Harris also mentioned her maternal grandfather P.V. Gopalan, who was a retired civil servant. She said that when she used to come to India in her childhood, she used to hear stories from her grandfather about the importance of democracy and civil rights. This was his first lesson, which created an interest in civil service in her. She told that the things taught by her grandfather are still guiding her as Vice President and as a presidential candidate. Kamala believes that the American people need a leadership that works for every citizen, and this has also been the basis of her entire career.Commitment on healthcare and MedicareIn her op-ed, Kamala Harris talked about reforming the American healthcare system, especially for South Asian Americans, who are often ignored by the healthcare system. She told that along with President Joe Biden, she has made efforts to limit the prices of insulin for senior citizens and reduce the cost of medicines. Kamala Harris said that if she becomes president, she will expand Medicare to cover home care so that the elderly can get better health facilities. Referring to the care she provided to her mother during her cancer, she said that she understands the burden of care and is committed to reducing it.Attack on Trump and views on immigration policyKamala Harris also launched a scathing attack on her opponent in the presidential election, former President Donald Trump. She said that unlike Trump, who sympathizes with leaders with dictatorial tendencies, she believes in protecting America's security and its ideals. She said that Trump's policies will increase inflation and plans like his "Trump sales tax" will put a heavy financial burden on ordinary American families. The impact of this tax can put an average additional cost of $4,000 on American families every year, which will further weaken their financial condition.Kamala Harris also expressed her views on immigration policy. She said that she will work with Democrats, Republicans, and independent leaders to keep America a proud immigrant country. At the same time, she also promised to further strengthen relations with South Asian countries including India.ConclusionOn the occasion of Diwali, Kamala Harris emotionally mentioned her roots and her family's experiences and said that Indian culture and the teachings of her grandfather have brought her to this position today. In her op-ed, she shared her experiences and gave the message that she is a leader who is connected to her roots and who is committed to the rights and welfare of all Americans.