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South Asians (people from or with origins in Afghanistan, Bangladesh, Bhutan, India, Nepal, Pakistan, and Sri Lanka) comprise almost 20% of the Bay Area’s population and 60% of SJSU’s international students. Yet these stories are rarely told.
From artists to engineers, South Asians are making incredible contributions to Silicon Valley. The South Asians in Silicon Valley program’s goal is to record the South Asian experience, share it with our Bay Area communities, preserve these rich histories for generations to come, and most importantly, give South Asians a sense of belonging at San José State University and beyond.
Exhibition & Symposium
In April and May 2024, project organizers will host an exhibit and symposium that will showcase the experiences and contributions of South Asians in the area. Artifacts selected by and collected from community members will demonstrate, teach and highlight their rich legacies. This will be the first ever platform at SJSU to welcome the South Asian community to discuss preservation of their legacies.
Traditional Musical Event
In August 2024, the organizers will host a music program,‘Sounds of South Asia’, a half-day event that will invite local musicians from the seven countries to perform the musical traditions and instruments. Community members will be able to hear and learn about a wide range of sounds, melodies, and musical cultures.
These two events are just the beginning of the South Asians in Silicon Valley Program, and our first steps towards a larger more permanent vision.
Participation & Involvement
Support from individuals like you is crucial to the success of these programs. Your contributions enable us to secure funding for top speakers and performers, acquire essential exhibit materials, and provide refreshments to create a welcoming atmosphere for our guests to gather and foster community.
If you’re interested in sharing your story or getting involved, please don’t hesitate to reach out to us. Help us spread the word and contribute to our cause. Through this initiative, we aim to address the existing need to document the South Asian story of Silicon Valley, bring it to the Bay Area community, and establish SJSU Library as a leader in preserving and sharing these important histories.
Mantra Roy
Collection Strategy Librarian
San José State University King Library
(408) 808-2039
mantra.roy@sjsu.edu
