House of Representatives U.S. Representative Frank Pallone, Jr.
Extension of Remarks
September 3, 2003
Honoring Jeevan Zutshi for his dedication to Kashmir
Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor a dedicated member of the Kashmiri-American community, Jeevan Zutshi, for his years of tireless work on behalf of Kashmir.
In 1986, Mr. Zutshi began a Kashmiri Overseas Association Chapter in California and was elected as the Association's national Vide-President in 1989. Mr. Zutshi was instrumental in helping to initiate and organize a series of fundraisers for Kashmiri refugees immediately following the exodus of 300,000 Pandits from Kashmir in 1990, the first of which was held in his hometown of Fremont, CA.
In 1994 and 1996, Mr. Zutshi led delegations from the Federation of Indo-American Associations and the Indian American Friendship Council to Jammu camps in Kashmir. Mr. Zutshi was the driving force behind several international symposiums on Kashmir. The symposiums, held in 1992, 2001, and 2002, brought together members of Congress, community activists and think tank consultants. He has also organized several rallies in support of India and her interests and has led campaigns to educate the mainstream community and media on India and Kashmir. A strong promoter of Kashmirir arts, culture, and education, Mr. Zutshi has invited prominent artists and performers from Kashmir to perform in Northern California. He is also the national coordinator for the Foundation for Excelllence, which works to educate the Kashmiri youth. Mr. Zutshi has been honored on numerous occasions for his efforts to promote Inidan socio-cultural heritage and the assimilation of Indo-American in mainstream America through active community participation and involvement. In the aftermath of the terrorist attacks of September 11th, Mr. Zutshi convened "Unity Dinner 2002" that brought together nearly 400 members of diverse communities.
Mr. Zutshi's devotion to his community and his commitment to the acceptance of and tolerance of diverse cultures makes him an invaluable asset to the Kashmir and Indo-American community. I am proud to call Jeevan a friend and I ask my colleagues to join with me in recognizing a selfless, tireless and committed member of our community.