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Inaugural Nepali Community Day Celebrated in Albany

By Makai House ONLINE TV

Makai House TV & News :

Albany, NY – May 28, 2024 – Assemblymember Steven Raga, in collaboration with Assemblymembers Sarahana Shrestha and Jenifer Rajkumar, and in partnership with the Consulate General of Nepal and over 30 Nepali organizations from across New York State, proudly hosted the Inaugural Nepali Community Day at the New York State Capitol on May 28, 2024.

This landmark event marked a significant milestone for the Nepali community, as it was the first time that the Nepali community participated as a unified group in the New York State Capitol. Over 200 members of the Nepali community attended the reception, both Assembly and Senate Floor introductions by the House Speaker, followed by the cultural event, which highlighted the rich cultural heritage and contributions of Nepali-Americans.

The day commenced with the Nepali group being formally introduced on the New York State Assembly Floor, where their substantial contributions to the state were acknowledged. Assemblymember Steven Raga formally introduced the Nepali group to the House Speaker, mentioning that there are Nepali communities present that not only represent his district but are representative of all New York State and beyond. This historic introduction underscored the growing influence and presence of the Nepali community in New York State’s legislative process. When introducing the community to the House Speaker, he said, “It’s a community that is very vibrant, energetic, and kind, reflective of New York City and the Greater State of New York.” He then requested the House Speaker to formally introduce the Nepali group as a whole in the Assembly Floor.

Adding to the day’s significance, the Nepali group was also introduced on the Senate Floor by Senator Michael Gianaris, further highlighting their contributions and the importance of their presence in state governance.

The later segment of Nepali Community Day in Albany Cultural event was graced by several prominent lawmakers, including Assemblymembers Nader Sayegh, George Alvarez, Grace Lee, Yudelka Tapia, Jake Blumencranz, Manny De Los Santos, representatives from the Offices of the Attorney General and the New York State Comptroller, New York State AAPI Task Force Executive members, and many other elected officials. In their remarks, these officials emphasized the importance of the Nepali community’s engagement in Albany and recognized the day as a pivotal moment in enhancing their visibility and impact on state decisions.

Assemblymember Steven Raga remarked, “Hosting the first-ever Nepali Community Day at the New York State Capitol in Albany marked a historic moment for not only the 30th Assembly District but for New York State. It was a great honor to partner with my colleagues Assemblymembers Sarahana Shrestha and Jenifer Rajkumar, alongside the Consulate General of Nepal in New York, and over 30 Nepali community organizations from Queens to Albany. Witnessing hundreds of members of the Nepali community coming together and celebrating their rich cultural heritage and significant contributions was profoundly inspiring. This gathering not only showcased the vibrant and growing Nepali community in New York State but also highlighted their increasing influence and vital presence in our state’s legislative process, which I strongly affirm. I am proud to say the Nepali community is an integral part of New York’s 30th Assembly District. We will continue to foster community-building to strengthen our shared commitment to progress and unity.”

Assemblymember Sarahana Shrestha added, “As the first Nepali person elected to the NYS Legislature, it was an honor to welcome communities from across the state to Albany for Nepal Day. Nepal is a country full of diverse cultures and languages—to bring them together to celebrate our heritage in the state capital was a historic day.”

“I was proud to co-host Nepali Community Day in Albany with my colleagues Assemblymembers Raga and Shrestha. Four years ago, I created the first ever Nepali Heritage Day in New York State. As the first South Asian woman elected to New York State Office, I have made the impossible possible and delivered for our Nepali family. I led and won fight to make Diwali a School Holiday. I then passed the law creating the historic first ever AAPI Commission in State Government. I passed the first ever resolution creating Mount Everest Day in New York, in honor of the Nepali Sherpa community.
As we came together this week with the Nepali American community to celebrate all our achievements, we know this is just the beginning of what we will accomplish.” AM Jenifer Rajkumar.

Dolma Lama, Director of Community Affairs at the Office of Assemblymember Steven Raga, emphasized, “Nepali Community Day in Albany 2024 would not have been successful without the support of 33 community partners, some of whom were also on the planning team, and all the Nepali community members who showed up and participated in the celebration to make this significant day possible. We will have the Nepali Community Day in Albany every year in the New York State Capitol to ensure our advocacy for Nepali communities becomes even more effective. We invite all Nepali organizations interested in joining the planning committee for our future Nepali Community Day in Albany event to reach out to the Office of Assemblymember Steven Raga.”

The event also featured a vibrant cultural program showcasing traditional Nepali music, dance, and cuisine, further enriching the attendees’ experience and fostering a deeper appreciation of Nepali heritage. Performances included traditional dances such as the Mithila dance, Sherpa dance, several other Nepali traditional dances and Nepali music with traditional instruments creating an immersive cultural experience.

The Inaugural Nepali Community Day in Albany not only celebrated the community’s cultural legacy but also marked their increasing involvement and representation in state affairs. This momentous occasion is a stepping stone towards greater advocacy and participation of the Nepali community in New York State’s legislative processes. The event also served as a networking platform, allowing community members to connect with state legislators and advocate for issues important to the Nepali community.

Future Nepali Community Days aim to build on this year’s success, expanding participation and deepening the community’s engagement with state governance. This annual event promises to be a cornerstone for cultural exchange and political advocacy, reinforcing the Nepali community’s integral role in the fabric of New York State.

Remarks from the Planning Committee of the 33 Community Partners: 

“With deep gratitude to Assemblymembers Steven Raga, Jenifer Rajkumar and Sarahana Shrestha, the Minority Empowerment Network team is honored to be a part of the planning team of this historic event, where the Nepali-American community shined in Albany, New York’s capital, for the first time. This wasn’t just a celebration; it was a bold testament to our unity and strength.” said Shreeya Tuladhar, Executive Director, of Minority Empowerment Network (MiEN).

“Albany New York Nepalese Society (ANNS) wishes to express our profound gratitude to Assembly Members Steven Raga, Sarahana Shrestha, Jenifer Rajkumar, and all other elected officials as well as all Nepalese communities for your esteemed presence and active participation in Nepali Community Day in Albany. Your engagement and support were pivotal in ensuring the resounding success of this event. We deeply appreciate your commitment to celebrating and preserving our rich cultural heritage. We look forward to your continued involvement in future endeavors,” said Surya Poudel Secretary of ANNS

“The Ridgewood Nepalese Society is very proud to be on the planning team, participate, and perform at the historical Nepali Community Day in Albany 2024. We extend our heartfelt gratitude to New York State Assembly members Steven Raga, Sarahana Shrestha, and Jenifer Rajkumar Jenifer for hosting and honoring our outstanding community service and participation with a New York State Assembly Proclamation. We also wish to express our sincere thanks to the hundreds of community members for their valuable time and participation. Last but not least, thank you to all our children and youth for taking a day off from school to participate, promote Nepali cultural heritage, and perform outstandingly at the New York State Capitol, Albany,” said Rajesh Bhatta from Ridgewood Nepalese Society.

“We are grateful to Assemblymember Steven Raga, Assemblymember Sarahana Shrestha, and Assemblymember Jenifer Rajkumar for recognizing Nepali Community Day in Albany Assembly Hall and also in Senate Hall. GPK Foundation America salutes Dolma for her dedication and determination in bringing Nepali organizations together which made this event a memorable one and a historic one. We hope this event will inspire others too and continues every year in Albany as ‘the Nepali Community Day,” said Somnath Ghimire, President of GPK Foundation America.

“With deep gratitude to Assemblymembers Steven Raga, Jenifer Rajkumar, and Sarahana Shrestha, the Minority Empowerment Network team is honored to be a part of the planning team of this historic event, where the Nepali community shines in Albany, New York’s capital, for the first time. This isn’t just a celebration; it’s a bold testament to our unity and strength. Join us as we illuminate our emerging community, igniting a flame that will burn bright for generations to come,” said Shreeya Tuladhar, Executive Director, of Minority Empowerment Network (MiEN).

“We are grateful to Assemblymembers Steven Raga, Jenifer Rajkumar, and Sarahana Shrestha for their leadership and support in making this event a reality. Their dedication to empowering minority communities and promoting diversity and inclusion is truly commendable. This event was a powerful reminder of the importance of coming together, standing united, and embracing our differences as strengths. United Sherpa Association Inc. / Sherpa Kyidug America, New York is honored to be part of this first historic Nepalese Community Day celebration in Albany, New York,” said Temba Sherpa, President of United Sherpa Association.

List of all 33 Community partners Nepali Organizations all across New York State and beyond who partnered with our office on Nepali Community Day in Albany 2024:

  1. Adhikaar

  2. Alpine Sports Association Inc.(North America – Nepal)

  3. Baglung Sewa Samaj – America

  4. Bhotekoshi Society USA

  5. Ghyalsumdo Sewa Sanstha Inc., USA

  6. Gorkhali Samaj

  7. The Gurung (Tamu) Society

  8. Hami Nepali Global America

  9. Himani Trust – USA

  10. Kirat Rai Society of America(KRSA)

  11. Kirat Yakthung Chumlung – USA

  12. Lions Club of Queens Buddha 

  13. Long Island Nepalese Society

  14. Magar Association USA Inc,New York Chapter

  15. Mithila Center USA

  16. Mustang Kyidug USA Inc.

  17. Nepalese American Nurses Association (NANA)

  18. Nepal Vision Inc.

  19. Newah Nakha New York

  20. NRNA NCC USA Tourism and Trade 

  21. Overseas Nepali Unity Forum, America (ONUF)

  22. Rotary Club of New York Queens

  23. Sindhuli Society of America

  24. Tamang Society of North America

  25. United Kirat Rai Organization of America New York Chapter

  26. United Mugum Organization USA

  27. US Nepal Climbers Association INC.

  28. Albany New York Nepalese Society(ANNS) 

  29. NRNA NCC-USA NY Chapter

  30. United Sherpa Association(USA) INC.

  31. Minority Empowerment Network 

  32. GPK Foundation America 

  33. Ridgewood Nepalese Society

List of Performing Artists: 

Austin Shah & Angela Sah 

Angela Sah 

Pragya Panthi 

Simran Adhikari 

Neha Panthi 

Prasiddhi Thapa

Rashmi Giri

Rashmi Timalsina 

Agrata Timalsina 

Suprina Sapkota

Angela Sah 

Aarya Sah 

Ram Aadarsh Sah

Lopsang sherpa 

Karsang sherpa 

Jungne sherpa 

Nimpasang sherpa 

Barihati Hamal 

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