Washington: In a landmark recognition of Tamil heritage and culture, Congressman Raja Krishnamoorthi (D-IL) has introduced a bipartisan resolution to designate January as “Tamil Language and Heritage Month”.
This historic initiative, coinciding with the Tamil festival of Pongal, celebrates the contributions of Tamil culture, language, and traditions to the United States and the world.
Tamil, one of the world’s oldest surviving classical languages with a history exceeding 2,600 years, is spoken by over 80 million people globally, including 360,000 Americans, said the resolution. It goes on to highlight Tamil’s rich linguistic heritage and its enduring influence.
“As a Tamil American, I am proud to introduce this bipartisan resolution honoring the Tamil language, heritage, and culture here at home in the United States and around the world,” Congressman Krishnamoorthi stated. “America is a mosaic of different languages, cultures, ideas, and traditions, and it is my sincere hope that this resolution will shine a light on the rich and distinct culture, as well as the incredible achievements, of the more than 350,000 Tamil Americans today.”
The resolution also acknowledges the significance of Pongal, the Tamil harvest festival that symbolises gratitude to nature.
It has already won support from Tamil organisations in the US.
“Tamil Americans United PAC wholeheartedly welcomes and deeply appreciates Representative Raja Krishnamoorthi and the members of Congress for introducing this significant legislation, which highlights the rich history of the ancient Tamil people and their invaluable contributions to the modern world,” said Tamil Americans United PAC.
The Federation of Tamil Sangams of North America (FeTNA) also expressed their support, stating, “As proud Tamil Americans, we strongly support Rep. Krishnamoorthi’s resolution to create a Tamil Language and Heritage Month. Tamils have much to contribute to this dear country we call our home, and showcasing our history, language, and culture will allow us to meaningfully share what we have with our fellow citizens.”
“PEARL appreciates the leadership of Congressman Krishnamoorthi on this resolution, which celebrates the invaluable contributions of the Tamil community to the United States across generations,” People for Equality and Relief in Lanka (PEARL) said. “The resolution highlights the extensive history and cultural richness of the Tamil people. Recognizing Tamil Heritage Month reinforces the incredible diversity that defines and strengthens American society.”
The resolution has garnered bipartisan backing from 15 Members of Congress, including Reps. Nicole Malliotakis (R-NY), Shri Thanedar (D-MI), Ro Khanna (D-CA), Pramila Jayapal (D-WA), and Summer Lee (D-PA) among others.
The introduction of the resolution comes as Tamils across the world marked Thai Pongal, with several members of Congress releasing messages to mark the occasion.
The latest resolution follows another introduced last year calling on the United States to work towards an independence referendum for Eelam Tamils and recognize the genocide committed against them by the Sri Lankan state.
“Recognizing January as Tamil Language and Heritage Month allows the people of the United States to celebrate the rich history, language, and culture of the Tamil people and encourages all Americans to learn about the contributions of Tamil Americans to the cultural fabric of the Nation,” Congressman Krishnamoorthi affirmed.
