Founded in Philadelphia, PA in 2003, the Hindu American Foundation began with a simple but powerful vision: to serve as the voice and advocate for Hindu Americans in their adopted homeland. What started as a gathering of idealistic friends around a kitchen table—driven by personal experiences of misrepresentation and cultural misunderstanding—has grown into the largest and oldest education and advocacy organization dedicated to the Hindu American community. Each founder brought their own motivation: addressing public square concerns unique to Hindu Americans, ensuring accurate media coverage of Hinduism, protecting Hindu American youth from proselytization, and guaranteeing accurate representation in public school curricula. Today, HAF has evolved into a professionally staffed institution with close to 20 full-time employees, a visionary Board of Directors, and passionate advisory councils representing Hindu Americans across the country. The foundation's guiding principles are rooted in Hindu teachings that emphasize dignity, mutual respect, and pluralism. HAF's commitment extends beyond education to defending civil and human rights, protecting all living beings, and addressing environmental concerns. The organization works directly with communities to make it easier for Hindu Americans to practice their faith authentically while contributing fully to American society. Operating as a non-partisan, non-profit public charity, HAF maintains the highest standards of transparency and nonprofit excellence. The foundation's work reflects a deep understanding of the unique challenges facing Hindu Americans and a dedication to ensuring their voices are heard and their traditions are honored in the public sphere.
Philadelphia, PA