Source

WASHINGTON, D.C., May 27, 2004: The leadership of the Hindu American Foundation (“source”) held high level meetings with several Jewish leaders from across the United States during the Annual Policy Conference of the American Israel Public Affairs Committee here May 16-18, 2004. HAF was the sole organization representing Hindus at the annual conference attended by prominent U.S. officials including President George W. Bush. During a break-out session devoted to Indian-Israeli relations. HAF President, Mihir Meghani, M.D., recalled the history of Hindu-Jewish friendship that began with the arrival of Jews to India nearly 2,000 years ago. “The history of Jews in India was guided by the Hindu ethos of tolerance and pluralism,” said Dr. Meghani. “India is held in high esteem by many Jews throughout the world as Indian Jews never faced anti-Semitism.” HAF members discussed the scourge of terrorism faced by India and Israel, and conveyed the security issues facing Hindus globally to AIPAC leaders. HAF emphasized the many values shared by Hindu Americans and Jewish Americans: a determined work ethic, family values, a non-proselytizing, tolerant religion, and a respect for life and religious freedom. “Hindus in America seek to emulate the varied achievements of the accomplished Jewish Diaspora in our shared home, the United States. The Hindu American Foundation joins Jewish Americans today as we work together to promote a more peaceful, tolerant and pluralist world that respects and recognizes the eternal contributions of two of the world’s oldest religions — Hinduism and Judaism,” added Dr. Meghani.



The recently formed Hindu American Foundation (HAF) is a human rights group whose purpose is to provide a voice for the 2 million strong Hindu American community. HAF interacts with and educates government, media, think tanks, academia and public forums about Hinduism and issues of concern to Hindus locally and globally. Promoting the Hindu and American ideals of understanding, tolerance and pluralism, HAF stands against hate, discrimination, defamation and terror.

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