Hindu American Foundation

Our Mission

HAF advances the understanding of Hinduism to secure the rights and dignity of Hindu Americans now and for generations to come.

We do this by providing:

• accurate and engaging educational resources about Hinduism and Hindu Americans
• impactful trainings, advocacy and services that protect and promote religious liberty, free expression, equality and justice
• critical and creative programs empowering Hindu Americans to sustain their culture and identity

Our Work

We work with state boards of education and publishers to ensure Hinduism is portrayed accurately and fairly in public school textbooks. We supply teachers and students with training and supplementary resources to enhance their ability to teach and understand the Hindu tradition. 

We provide cultural competency trainings to law enforcement agencies, workplaces and college campuses for better understanding and inclusion of Hindu Americans. We develop and distribute resources on Hinduism to media professionals for better, more contextualized reportage about Hindu topics. We educate policymakers and channel the concerns of the community on issues such as non-discrimination in the workplace and the right to display religious symbols. We pursue impact litigation and offer seminars and consultation services when the civil rights of Hindu Americans are at risk. 

We train Hindu Americans with the knowledge and skills to confidently talk about our teachings with their neighbors, colleagues, and friends. We support families with guides, toolkits and seminars to help them discuss Hinduism and Hindu issues with their children. 

Our Guiding Principles

HAF is politically agnostic and non-partisan, meaning we’re informed, but do not favor and cannot endorse any one political party or any candidates. We will work with all individuals and institutions who embrace integrity and reason and are constructively engaged in promoting dignity, freedom, equality and justice. 

HAF is not affiliated with any religious or political organizations or entities. HAF seeks to serve Hindu Americans across all sampradaya (Hindu religious traditions) regardless of race, color, national origin, ethnicity, ancestry, citizenship, gender, sexual orientation, age and/or disability.  

Our positions are based on a relentless pursuit of facts; deep consideration of Hindu principles and American values, such as pluralism, freedom, equality, and justice; and the input of subject matter experts. If we like a policy, we’ll say so, and rigorously substantiate our position.

HAF positions will always be based on our guiding principles and we will always work in a manner that is rooted in Hindu values.

Satya. Be truthful. We pride ourselves in offering programming and information with accuracy and integrity.

Ahimsā. Be kind. We aspire to work and communicate fairly, constructively, and respectfully.

Viveka. Be wise. We approach our work with intelligence, discernment, and reflection.

Srijantā. Be innovative. We aspire to keep our work and approach creative, innovative and agile.

Sahakāritva. Be collaborative. We seek out partnerships with individuals and individuals on a foundation of mutual respect to forward our shared values and goals.

Nirmamatva. Be selfless. We value and respect each other and keep our focus on serving a greater good.

Utsāh. Be passionate. We are passionate about Hindu Dharma and our work.