Nishtha Goel

First published on US Indian Seniors

Ready to transform the Desi community into a political force that can help shape the future of this country?

It all starts with one critical action: VOTING.

For too long, our community has stayed on the sidelines while other voting blocs—like the Low Information Voters (LIVs)—determine critical issues like healthcare, immigration, and education. LIVs are notorious for making decisions based on superficial factors like a candidate’s appearance or name rather than actual policies.

Isn't it time to take charge of our own future?

Let’s go through how to organize a voter registration drive for the South Asian community that's as fun as a Desi wedding— but instead of saying "I do," we’ll be saying, "I vote!"

Let’s get informed and engaged in the US democratic process and build a voting bloc that no one can ignore.

Why Our Community Needs to Vote

South Asian Americans are a growing force in the United States. With over 5.4 million people, our community is one of the fastest-growing immigrant groups, but our voting participation is dismal compared to other groups.

What's At Stake if we Don't Vote?

If we don’t vote, we allow other groups to make decisions on critical issues that directly affect us—whether it’s access to healthcare, education, immigration policies, or combating discrimination. Voting isn’t just a civic duty—it’s an opportunity to shape policies that impact the lives of millions and our future generations.

Step 1: Know Your State’s Rules

Before you hit the ground running, it’s crucial to understand the specific rules in your state. A quick Google search for "Voter Registration Drive [Your State]" will provide the information you need. You can also go to https://vote.gov/ and add your state to gather state specific data. Each state has different regulations, deadlines, and forms. Some states may require you to register as an official organization before you can run a drive. For example, in California, you’ll need to fill out forms detailing your organization’s name and purpose.

Also, be sure to contact your state’s department of elections or county clerk’s office. They can provide voter registration forms in multiple languages such as Hindi, Urdu, and Tamil.

Step 2: Logistics—Set Up for Success

Setup meetings with your volunteers beforehand to ensure they understand the process and have access to the websites.

A Table: Keep it simple—a table for forms, laptops, and handouts.
Volunteers: Ensure your volunteers are trained, knowledgeable, and ideally bilingual. Whether they speak Hindi, Gujarati, or Punjabi, volunteers who can communicate in multiple languages will help bridge the language barrier.

Make sure volunteers sign a disclaimer form so they understand the legal importance of protecting personal information like social security numbers and birthdates.

*CA State Senator Caroline Menjivar and LA City Councilmember Nithya Raman with VISA Desi Seniors.*

Step 3: Verify Registration Status

Not everyone you approach will be unregistered. Many people in our community may already be on the voter rolls but haven’t participated in recent elections. Your volunteers should check their registration status (this can often be done online). Encourage already-registered voters to stay informed on key issues and vote in every election, not just presidential ones. Provide comparable data from other minority voting blocs compared to Desis to galvanize our community to vote.

Step 4: Register New Voters

Use laptops to walk people through the registration process and make sure you collect accurate information. Mistakes in the registration process could result in applications being delayed or rejected. This step is especially important for first-time voters.

Step 5: Offer Paper Registration Forms

If people are reluctant to share their personal details on the spot, have them complete paper forms. Provide forms in languages they’re comfortable with and encourage them to mail it immediately. Some people are more likely to follow through if they physically have the form in hand.

Step 6: Promote Mail-In Voting

Mail-in ballots have become increasingly popular, especially for older voters and those with busy schedules. In states where mail-in voting is allowed, make sure people are aware of the deadlines and procedures for requesting and submitting these ballots. Elderly voters may appreciate the convenience. Per a recent article in the Wall Street Journal, “The nation’s population of senior citizens is growing faster than any other age group, they are disproportionately represented in this year’s key swing states, and they vote in higher proportions than anyone else.”

Step 7: Follow Up

Registering someone to vote is only the first step. Follow up with a phone call or email to ensure they’ve mailed in their forms and are ready to vote. Explain how each new registered voter strengthens the Desi voting bloc, helping ensure that our community’s voice is heard. Encourage them to create a ripple effect (with their family and friends) and get the word out about voting and how it strengthens the Desi voting base.

Why Desi Votes Matter

According to a 2020 Pew Research Center report, the Asian American electorate, which includes South Asians, is the fastest-growing group of voters in the U.S.

Let’s harness this power by voting.

For example, in Georgia, Asian Americans, including South Asians, played a crucial role in flipping the state blue in the 2020 presidential election. Let’s replicate that success across the country by ensuring our community is registered and ready to vote. In critical swing states like Florida, Pennsylvania, and Michigan, a small but organized voting bloc can make all the difference. Imagine how powerful we could be if we mobilized our entire community!

Conclusion

Turning the Desi community into a political powerhouse starts with voter registration. Whether it’s at the local temple, mosque, gurudwara, or Bollywood movie night, getting out there to engage our community is essential. If we don’t step up, Low Information Voters and other voting blocs will make decisions for us.

At the least, contact your local county clerk/state board of elections office to obtain voter registration forms in Hindi/English/Urdu or other regional languages and place it in strategic, popular locations frequented by Desis.

Let’s unite our community and build an influential Desi voting bloc which demands attention, influences policies, and secures a brighter future for our families.