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Indian American Women's Strong Support for Abortion Rights Shaping US Election

  • 07 Nov 2024 07:34 AM
  • Indian American women, abortion rights, US election, reproductive rights, political influence

In the upcoming US presidential election, the issue of abortion rights is emerging as a significant factor that is influencing Indian American women's voting preferences. This demographic group, part of the second-largest immigrant community in the United States, is showing a strong inclination towards supporting candidates who advocate for reproductive rights. Meeta Damani, an Indian American documentary filmmaker in New Jersey, emphasizes the interconnected nature of reproductive rights with overall family health and freedom of choice. The clarity of thought among Indian American women on this issue is making abortion rights a top-tier policy concern in the 2024 election cycle.



Priya, a vocal member of the Indian American diaspora in New Jersey, expresses disbelief that abortion rights are still a contentious issue in a first-world country like America. She asserts that women should have the ultimate say over their bodies and choices. The 2022 Supreme Court decision overturning Roe v. Wade and subsequent restrictive state laws have heightened concerns about further limitations on reproductive rights. Many women, like Supreet, an IT professional, recognize the impact of these restrictions on women's lives and applaud employers who support their female employees in accessing care in states with more favorable laws.



The Indian American Attitudes Survey (IAAS) reveals a significant gender gap in voting preferences, with 67% of Indian American women intending to vote for Kamala Harris compared to 53% of men. This gap is most pronounced among younger voters, highlighting the importance of reproductive rights as a mobilizing issue. Sonal Sharma, an immigration lawyer, offers a cautionary perspective, noting that while abortion rights are crucial to many women, they are not the sole determinant of voting decisions. Political campaigns, however, are actively engaging Indian American voters on this issue, recognizing the community's growing political influence.



Overall, the support for abortion rights among Indian American women is shaping the political landscape of the upcoming election. With a focus on reproductive freedom and women's autonomy, this demographic group is poised to play a significant role in determining the outcome of the election. As campaigns intensify their efforts to appeal to Indian American voters, the issue of abortion rights is likely to remain a key factor in mobilizing and influencing this important demographic.

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