AIA MISSION
The Association of Indians in America (AIA) is the oldest national association of Asian Indians in America. It was founded on August 20, 1967 after the United States Congress passed the 1965-66 Immigration Act, repealing the Asian Exclusion Act of 1917. The constitution of the AIA was adopted in 1970 & was incorporated in 1971. The AIA obtained the IRS tax exempt status in 1973. AIA is the grassroots national organization of Asian immigrants in United States, fostered on the democratic principle of “one member one vote”. With chapters & membership spread across the United States of America, AIA represents the hopes & aspirations of those immigrants who are united by their common bond of Indian Heritage & American Commitment. Indian Heritage & American Commitment
- 1. To promote the welfare of Asian Indians in the US and to address issues of integration with mainstream America.
- 2. To promote the image of India in the US by showing its rich culture and traditions through various events.
- 3. To encourage and facilitate the participation of AIA members and others in the development and progress of India through charitable, cultural and educational activities and to facilitate communication and co-operation among the people of Indian Heritage worldwide.
- 1967 – Founded The Association of Indians in America (AlA) is the oldest national association of Asian Indians in America. It was founded on August 20, 1967 after the United States Congress passed the Immigration Act during 1965-66, repealing the Asian Exclusion Act of 1917.
- 1970 – AIA Constitution Adopted AIA adopts the democratic principles of “one member one vote”, with chapters and membership spread across the United States of America.
- 1973 – Acquiring tax-exempt status AlA obtains IRS exempt status.
- 1993 – Earthquake Relief Operations AIA helps raise funds to help the victims of the earthquake in Maharashtra, Western India, in 1993.
- 1993 – Sushruta and Charaka Awards Instituted in 1993 to recognize and honor people of Indian origin in the field of Medicine and Health Care.
- 2005 – New York City Recognizes Deepavali as an official holiday In recognition of Diwali alternate street parking in the city of New York is suspended.
- 2006 – White House celebrates Deepavali AIA facilitates the first celebration of Deepavali at the White House.
- 2013 – Official USPS Deepavali Stamp Unveiled Resolution introduced in the House of Representatives advising USPS to issue a stamp commemorating Deepavali.
- 2023 – NYS Legislation Passes Diwali as a Holiday in NYC School System Deepavali would be a school Holiday for all children in the largest school system in the Nation- NYC School System.
Beena KothariPresidents Message Greetings & a warm welcome to AIA - New York! I am deeply humbled & honored to serve as the President of this esteemed organization for the 2025-2026 term. AIA-NY.ORG is one of the oldest & most revered Indian-American organizations, & I am thrilled to be part of its remarkable legacy. I extend my heartfelt gratitude to all the distinguished dignitaries, past presidents, trustees, board members, & committee leaders who have tirelessly worked with passion & excellence to achieve the association's goals. Your dedication & commitment have been instrumental in shaping AIA-NY into the vibrant & dynamic organization it is today. As we embark on this journey together, I look forward to working alongside each of you, building upon the foundation laid by our predecessors. With our collective efforts, we will continue serving our community with pride & purpose, taking AIA to even greater heights. India boasts a profoundly rich heritage, history, & culture that span thousands of years. The Indian-American community is eager to share & experience this vibrant legacy. The Association of Indians in America (AIA) is dedicated to promoting Indian culture & heritage globally. Our mission is to educate & invite people from diverse backgrounds to experience our iconic events—most notably, Deepavali (Diwali). Deepavali is our flagship event, steeped in history, culture, & traditional Indian values. This grand celebration serves as a testament to the richness of our homeland’s heritage. Through these festivities, we aim to showcase the beauty & diversity of Indian culture, fostering greater understanding, appreciation, & connection between communities. At AIA - New York, our goal is to continue expanding our community of friends & family who share our passion for Indian culture. We invite you to become a part of our organization & participate in our vibrant celebrations, including Deepavali. Together, let’s celebrate our heritage, build meaningful connections, & create lasting memories. Thank you!
Beena KothariPresidents Bio Beena Kothari is a distinguished community leader whose unwavering dedication has made a profound impact on the Indian-American community. Through her extensive associations, deep-rooted community involvement, & collaborative relationships, she has fostered meaningful connections & driven positive change. Her passionate commitment to cultural preservation, charitable endeavors, and social advocacy continues to inspire and uplift those around her. Distinguished LeadershipBeena has held numerous leadership roles, demonstrating her dedication to serving and strengthening the community:
- President, Association of Indians in America - NY Chapter (AIA-NY.ORG)
- Member, Suffolk County Human Rights Commission
- Member, Suffolk County Women's Advisory Commission
- Recording Secretary, Suffolk County Hindu American Advisory Board (HAB)
- Past President, Global Organization of People of Indian Origin (GOPIO), New York
- Past President/Chairperson, India Day Parade (IDP USA)
- Past President, India Association of Long Island (IALI)
- Board of Directors, Rajasthan Association of North America (RANA)
- Board Member, Indian American Forum (IAF)
- Trustee, Long Island Ladies Circle
- Advisory Board Member, South Asian Women’s Activity Organization (SAWAO)
- Sankara Eye Foundation (SEF) – Providing free eye care to underserved communities
- Akshaya Patra Foundation – Aiding in the fight against hunger through the Unlimited Food for Education initiative
- CRY (Child Rights and You) America – Advocating for the rights & welfare of underprivileged children
- JP Morgan Chase and IBM (Global IT Team Manager)
- Sony and Time Warner