“Hosting the first-ever Nepali Community Day at the New York State Capitol in Albany marked a historic moment for not only the 30th Assembly District but for New York State. It was a great honor to partner with my colleagues Assemblymembers Sarahana Shrestha and Jenifer Rajkumar, alongside the Consulate General of Nepal in New York, and over 30 Nepali community organizations from Queens to Albany. Witnessing hundreds of members of the Nepali community coming together and celebrating their rich cultural heritage and significant contributions was profoundly inspiring. This gathering not only showcased the vibrant and growing Nepali community in New York State but also highlighted their increasing influence and vital presence in our state’s legislative process, which I strongly affirm. I am proud to say the Nepali community is an integral part of New York’s 30th Assembly District. We will continue to foster community-building to strengthen our shared commitment to progress and unity,” said Assemblymember Steven Raga.

“As the first Nepali person elected to the NYS Legislature, it was an honor to welcome communities from across the state to Albany for Nepal Day. Nepal is a country full of diverse cultures and languages—to bring them together to celebrate our heritage in the state capital was a historic day,” said Assemblymember Sarahana Shrestha

“I was proud to co-host Nepali Community Day in Albany with my colleagues Assemblymembers Raga and Shrestha. Four years ago, I created the first ever Nepali Heritage Day in New York State. As the first South Asian woman elected to New York State Office, I have made the impossible possible and delivered for our Nepali family. I led and won fight to make Diwali a School Holiday. I then passed the law creating the historic first ever AAPI Commission in State Government. I passed the first ever resolution creating Mount Everest Day in New York, in honor of the Nepali Sherpa community. As we came together this week with the Nepali American community to celebrate all our achievements, we know this is just the beginning of what we will accomplish,” said Assemblymember Jenifer Rajkumar

Remarks from the Planning Committee of the 33 Community Partners:

“Albany New York Nepalese Society (ANNS) wishes to express our profound gratitude to Assembly Members Steven Raga, Sarahana Shrestha, Jenifer Rajkumar, and all other elected officials as well as all Nepalese communities for your esteemed presence and active participation in Nepali Community Day in Albany. Your engagement and support were pivotal in ensuring the resounding success of this event. We deeply appreciate your commitment to celebrating and preserving our rich cultural heritage. We look forward to your continued involvement in future endeavors,” said Surya Poudel Secretary of ANNS

“The Ridgewood Nepalese Society is very proud to be on the planning team, participate, and perform at the historical Nepali Community Day in Albany 2024. We extend our heartfelt gratitude to New York State Assembly members Steven Raga, Sarahana Shrestha, and Jenifer Rajkumar Jenifer for hosting and honoring our outstanding community service and participation with a New York State Assembly Proclamation. We also wish to express our sincere thanks to the hundreds of community members for their valuable time and participation. Last but not least, thank you to all our children and youth for taking a day off from school to participate, promote Nepali cultural heritage, and perform outstandingly at the New York State Capitol, Albany,” said Rajesh Bhatta from Ridgewood Nepalese Society.

“We are grateful to Assemblymember Steven Raga, Assemblymember Sarahana Shrestha, and Assemblymember Jenifer Rajkumar for recognizing Nepali Community Day in Albany Assembly Hall and also in Senate Hall. GPK Foundation America salutes Dolma for her dedication and determination in bringing Nepali organizations together which made this event a memorable one and a historic one. We hope this event will inspire others too and continues every year in Albany as ‘the Nepali Community Day,” said Somnath Ghimire, President of GPK Foundation America.

“With deep gratitude to Assemblymembers Steven Raga, Jenifer Rajkumar, and Sarahana Shrestha, the Minority Empowerment Network team is honored to be a part of the planning team of this historic event, where the Nepali community shines in Albany, New York’s capital, for the first time. This isn’t just a celebration; it’s a bold testament to our unity and strength. Join us as we illuminate our emerging community, igniting a flame that will burn bright for generations to come,” said Shreeya Tuladhar, Executive Director, of Minority Empowerment Network (MiEN).

“We are grateful to Assemblymembers Steven Raga, Jenifer Rajkumar, and Sarahana Shrestha for their leadership and support in making this event a reality. Their dedication to empowering minority communities and promoting diversity and inclusion is truly commendable. This event was a powerful reminder of the importance of coming together, standing united, and embracing our differences as strengths. United Sherpa Association Inc. / Sherpa Kyidug America, New York is honored to be part of this first historic Nepalese Community Day celebration in Albany, New York,” said Temba Sherpa, President of United Sherpa Association.

List of all 33 Community partners Nepali Organizations all across New York State and beyond who partnered with our office on Nepali Community Day in Albany 2024:

1.Adhikaar

2’Alpine Sports Association Inc.(North America – Nepal)

3.Baglung Sewa Samaj – America

4.Bhotekoshi Society USA

5.Ghyalsumdo Sewa Sanstha Inc., USA

6.Gorkhali Samaj

7.The Gurung (Tamu) Society

8.Hami Nepali Global America

9.Himani Trust – USA

10.Kirat Rai Society of America(KRSA)

11.Kirat Yakthung Chumlung – USA

12.Lions Club of Queens Buddha

13.Long Island Nepalese Society

14.Magar Association USA Inc,New York Chapter

15,Mithila Center USA

16.Mustang Kyidug USA Inc.

17,Nepalese American Nurses Association (NANA)

18.Nepal Vision Inc.

19.Newah Nakha New York

20.NRNA NCC USA Tourism and Trade

21.Overseas Nepali Unity Forum, America (ONUF)

22.Rotary Club of New York Queens

23.Sindhuli Society of America

24.Tamang Society of North America

25.United Kirat Rai Organization of America New York Chapter

26.United Mugum Organization USA

27.US Nepal Climbers Association INC.

28.Albany New York Nepalese Society(ANNS)

29.NRNA NCC-USA NY Chapter

30.United Sherpa Association(USA) INC.

31.Minority Empowerment Network

32.GPK Foundation America

33.Ridgewood Nepalese Society