Celebrate the South Asian diaspora in Eugene!

My family began our migration to the USA 50 years ago. I have lived in Eugene, Oregon for 25 of those years. During these 25 years, I have met others from the South Asian diaspora who have lived in Eugene for 50+ years. Many of us are tucked away in different parts of Eugene or Lane County and even the entire state. I grew up mostly isolated from other South Asians for most of my life. I feel much gratitude for the communities that have nurtured me and want to give back by putting on DesiFest. DesiFest will feature artists, musicians, dancers, writers, and comedians from the South Asian diaspora. It is my offering to the community in which I live, to the teachers with whom I taught, and the educators that I have helped prepare. It is one way I can bring all of my people together in one place to explore what it means to be South Asian in America in this moment. A small team of amazing volunteers have created an event and program that will be an ethnic studies window into the South Asian diaspora through the arts and humanities. Your financial support will help us ensure the success of this project. So whether you are part of the South Asian diaspora (Desi), an ally, an advocate, or a co-conspirator in the “Beautiful Struggle” we welcome you and invite you to create spaces of belonging in collaboration. DesiFest centers the experiences of the South Asian diaspora and it invites everyone to come celebrate and explore together the themes of “roots and wings” and of “solidarity and struggle”. We know that in this gathering there will be much joy! Thank you for your consideration.