From observers to participants: Strengthening the Malayalee footprint in American society

By Pinto Kannampally, President, World Malayalee Council (WMC) America Region)

AS primary elections are underway across the United States, I would like to make a humble appeal to the Malayalee community living in America: please vote, participate, and become an active part of the society in which you live.

In many places, June 23 is Primary Election Day, but voters do not have to wait until Election Day to make their voices heard. Early Voting options are available in many jurisdictions, and Mail-in Ballots provide another convenient way to participate. In addition, many polling locations offer Same-Day Registration, allowing eligible voters to register and cast their ballots on the same day.

My appeal, however, goes far beyond voting.

Many of us closely follow political developments in Kerala. We know who won an election, which party gained ground, and what political leaders are saying. We discuss Kerala politics passionately and often stay informed about every major development.

But let us pause and ask ourselves a simple question:

Where do we live?

Where are our children growing up?

Where is our future being built?

The answer is America.

America is not merely a place where we work. It is where our families live, where our children are educated, and where our future generations will build their lives. Therefore, it is essential that we become active participants in the democratic and civic institutions of this country.

Voting is one of the most powerful ways to make our voices heard, but civic engagement does not begin and end at the ballot box. Becoming part of the system means attending township meetings, participating in community events, volunteering for local causes, supporting charitable initiatives, engaging with school boards, joining neighborhood associations, and contributing to the well-being of the communities around us.

Even participating in a local 5K run that supports a worthy cause is a way of becoming visible and involved in the broader society.

Too often, members of immigrant communities complain about discrimination, prejudice, or exclusion. While such experiences can be real, one of the most effective ways to address misunderstandings is through engagement and participation.

If we remain confined to our homes and our own cultural circles, the larger society has little opportunity to know who we are, understand our values, or appreciate our contributions. We must step forward, engage, and make our presence known.

The more we participate, the stronger our voice becomes.

The more visible we are, the more influence we gain.

The more we contribute, the more respect we earn.

Silence can be dangerous. When people do not hear our voices or see our involvement, they have little understanding of our aspirations, concerns, or contributions. Democracy thrives through participation, dialogue, and engagement—not through isolation.

Many people may not realize that there are numerous opportunities available at the township, county, and state levels to contribute to nation-building and public service.

One such opportunity is serving as an Election Judge or Poll Worker.

Election Judges play a critical role in ensuring that elections are conducted fairly and efficiently. They assist voters, help manage polling locations, verify procedures, and support the democratic process. Most counties provide training, and many offer compensation for those who serve. It is an excellent opportunity for community-minded individuals, including members of the Malayalee community, to contribute directly to American democracy.

I would especially encourage our younger generation to explore such opportunities. Civic participation helps build leadership skills, strengthens community relationships, and creates pathways into public service and leadership roles.

As parents, we must encourage our children to move beyond their comfort zones and become part of mainstream America. We should inspire them to serve on student councils, volunteer in community programs, participate in civic organizations, and eventually take on leadership roles in society.

The future may hold Malayalee Americans who become mayors, legislators, judges, educators, policymakers, and community leaders. But that future begins with our willingness to participate today.

My heartfelt appeal to every Malayalee American is simple:

Vote. Participate. Volunteer. Speak up.

Become part of the system.

Let your voice be heard.

Encourage your children to engage with the wider community.

America is not just where we live—it is where our future is being shaped.

Let us not remain spectators of democracy. Let us become active participants in it.

Only when we become part of the community will the community truly know us. And only when the community knows us will we be able to help shape its future.

Together, let us build stronger communities, stronger families, and a stronger future for the generations to come.