The Indian American Experience Podcast
In our country, Indian Americans are a group that defies being painted in one stroke, be it in political/ideological leanings, definition of identity, or perception of their place in society. So, why not then hear directly from a diverse group of Indian-Americans, or desis, their experience, through light-hearted, casual conversations, and see if we can find common threads, maybe shed some myths, and hear some interesting stories!
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The Indian American Experience Podcast
46: Mayor Ravi Bhalla: Modeling Honesty, Hard work and Humility
In this captivating interview, Mayor Ravi Bhalla of Hoboken, New Jersey, serving as the city's 39th mayor since 2018, shares his journey from a civil rights lawyer to a two-term mayor. He discusses his childhood, his path to politics catalyzed by a grassroots campaign for Barack Obama, and the challenges and achievements during his tenure. Mayor Bhalla also speaks about the importance of identity and heritage, and his future aspirations, encouraging fellow Indian Americans to dream big and be proud of their roots. His humility despite his accomplishments and undiluted integrity is sure to inspire deeply and evoke pride in The Indian American community.
A 22-year resident of the City of Hoboken, Ravi Bhalla began his public service with eight years on the City Council before his mayoral election in November 2017. He built a career as a civil rights lawyer, nationally recognized by The New York Times for legal advocacy following a constitutional rights violation.
His City Council tenure saw significant fiscal reforms, improving Hoboken's bond rating, and establishing a responsible cash surplus. As Mayor, he prioritized climate resilience, signing a Climate Action Plan for net-zero energy by 2030 and carbon neutrality by 2050. Under his leadership, Hoboken became a national model for safe streets and multi modal transportation through implementation of the Vision Zero initiative to eliminate all traffic related fatalities and injuries by 2030.
His first term featured a citywide special improvement district and COVID-19 pandemic recovery. Educated at UC Berkeley, L.S.E., and Tulane Law School, Ravi, and his wife Bindya reside in Hoboken with their two children.
00:00 Introduction to Mayor Ravi Bhalla
01:49 Early Life and Background
03:13 Journey into Politics
07:17 Challenges and Accomplishments as Mayor
11:17 Identity and Heritage
14:10 Future Aspirations
16:05 Message to Indian Americans
18:21 Conclusion
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To contact me directly with questions or about being a guest on my show, email me here: IndianAmericanExperience@gmail.com