“But What Can I Do?”

“I’m feeling so hopeless, yaar.”

It’s a statement that I hear repeated in one form or another nearly every day these days. Sometimes I’m the one saying it! These are unprecedented times for us desis, given that most of us arrived in this country after the worst battles for civil rights had already been won and we stepped into a country that accepted us and rewarded us for our hard work. But now, authoritarian rhetoric, rising corruption, a disregard for science and truth, and immigrant scapegoating have made the current political atmosphere in the U.S. feel heavy.

The dismantling of everything that made America our dream is frightening to watch, and it is so tempting to cover our eyes, lie low, and hope and pray that things will get better. Somehow.

But I’m here to tell you that positive action, of any kind, is not just the only way things will change; it is also the best way to to feel better. It is an invaluable feeling to know that you were not on the sidelines during perhaps the most important period of your life and the lives of your children. As your Nana or Dadi may have said, “Andar ki roshni kabhi bujhne mat dena.” Don’t let your inner light go out.

Here is a list of actions - from easy to bold - so that you, yes you, can make a difference.

Level 1: Easy – Quiet Strength

These are low-risk, low-effort actions that still make a difference.

Stay Informed

Follow trusted news sources and sign up for updates from civic organizations like They See Blue, SAALT, or Indiaspora.

Talk to Your Family

Conversations over chai matter. Normalize talking about democracy, fairness, and truth - even if it’s just one line at a time. Gently pushback against hardline views by emphasizing our common humanity, the value of us all, and the virtue in being kind. It takes courage to say, “That’s not true,” especially in a family WhatsApp group. Do it kindly, but firmly. Back it up with facts. Stay calm. Repeat. Trust me, it works. And if you get the standard statement, “We don’t talk politics,” just respond, ““If we can argue for 30 minutes about what brand of basmati rice is best, I think we can spend 10 minutes talking about voting rights!”

Use WhatsApp Wisely

Before forwarding, fact-check. Share truth-telling graphics and videos from reliable sources. Share the wins - where fellow humans have exhibited love for others, courage against authoritarianism, and belief in justice and rule of law.

Register to Vote and Encourage Others in Your Family to do so.

Every vote counts. Every vote makes a difference. Believe it and convince others,

Support Small-Scale Activism

Donate $5 to a cause. Like or share a post that speaks truth. These small acts, done widely, create powerful ripples.Subscribe to your local newspaper (digital editions are cheap) to support unbiased journalism and local coverage.

Level 2: Moderate – Stepping In

These actions may take a bit more time or courage but have a deeper impact.

Join a Local Group

Find local Desi-led groups fighting for justice, such as They See Blue chapters, interfaith alliances, or Asian American advocacy groups and volunteer your time, energy, and creativity. Most are welcoming and offer roles big and small. Just one hour a week can help reach hundreds of voters who might otherwise stay silent and uninformed.

Speak Up at Cultural Events

Whether it's a community meeting, temple board, or festival celebration - use your voice to highlight civic issues. A short speech, a flyer, or a gentle correction when someone praises a corrupt leader goes a long way.

Host a Voter Info Night

Invite friends over for samosas and voting guides. Explain ballot measures and candidates. Make it casual but informative.

Write or Call Your Representatives

Yes, they do read letters from constituents. Templates and scripts are available online - just fill in your zip code and press send. 5 Calls is a great app that makes it super easy.

Level 3: Bold – Leading by Example

These are for those ready to step into the fire and carry the torch.

Speak Out Publicly

Write an op-ed, record a short video, or speak at a rally. Use your story - it’s powerful, and it will reach hearts that facts alone cannot.

Run for Office - or Help Someone Who Is

School board, city council, PTA. If you’re not ready to run, help fundraise or organize for someone who represents your values.

Organize the Community

Start a WhatsApp group focused on truth and civic action. Mobilize your apartment complex or mandir community. Every neighborhood has leaders - they just need a reason to rise.

We don’t all have to do everything. But all of us can do something.

History is watching. Our children are watching.

They See Blue has many opportunities to volunteer at every level of interest. Come join us at theyseeblue.org/join and find us on WhatsApp, Facebook, Instagram, and Bluesky. We have active local chapters in Pennsylvania, Virginia, New York/New Jersey, North Carolina, Texas, and California and others.