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A resolution recognizing July 18 to August 17, 2026, as South Asian Heritage Month in Nashville and Davidson County.
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WHEREAS, Nashville and Davidson County is home to a dynamic and growing South Asian community, with roots in Afghanistan, Bangladesh, Bhutan, India, the Maldives, Nepal, Pakistan, and Sri Lanka; and
WHEREAS, South Asian Heritage Month was first officially designated in 2020 to celebrate the culture and contributions of South Asian countries and their people; and
WHEREAS, several significant dates in South Asian history occur during this time, including the including the Indian Independence Act, the partition of India and Pakistan, and the Independence Days of the Maldives, Bhutan, Pakistan, and India, which makes this month particularly meaningful to honor both the histories and continued presence of South Asians in Nashville and Davidson County; and
WHEREAS, according to the 2020 census, more than 6.1 million people in the United States trace their heritage to South Asia, making South Asian Americans one of the fastest growing immigrant groups in the country; and
WHEREAS, South Asian Americans have faced challenges and discrimination throughout their history in the United States, including restrictive immigration acts, legal barriers to citizenship, and increased surveillance but have persevered and contributed significantly to various fields, including business, arts, entertainment, politics, and community activism; and
WHEREAS, it is fitting and proper for the Metropolitan Council to recognize the civic, cultural, and economic contributions on the South Asian community in Nashville and Davidson County and encourage all community members to come together to promote mutual respect, understanding, and unity among these diverse communities.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE COUNCIL OF THE METROPOLITAN GOVERNMENT OF NASHVILLE AND DAVIDSON COUNTY:
Section 1. The Metropolitan Council hereby goes on record as recognizing July 18 to August 17, 2026, as South Asian Heritage Month in Nashville and Davidson County.
Section 2. This Resolution shall take effect from and after its adoption, the welfare of The Metropolitan Government of Nashville and Davidson County requiring it.