29 September 2020
The Dawoodi Bohras of the Midwest – comprising communities from Chicago, Detroit, Minneapolis and Columbus, Ohio – hosted a virtual conference this month on the importance of the 2020 Census and Voter Registration.
Love of one’s country is an integral part of the Dawoodi Bohra faith. As patriotic Americans, Bohras from across the Midwest are spearheading a non-partisan campaign to get every local member of the faith to complete the 2020 Census and register to vote in November’s elections.
Addressing the conference, U.S. Senator Dick Durbin said: “If you are in a position where you can be registered to vote, don’t waste the opportunity. Nothing is more important. Every single vote counts.”
Representative Raja Krishnamoorthi [IL-8] told the audience, “In keeping with [the Bohra’s] emphasis on education, it is incumbent to ensure we are all adequately educated about the upcoming elections, that we are registered and ready to vote, and that we are equipped with the knowledge and tools necessary to make intelligent choices for our families and communities.”
U.S. Congresswoman Brenda Lawrence [MI-14] said: “The Dawoodi Bohras have been patriotic members of American society for many decades. Their commitment to service has extended beyond cultural, religious and racial lines. It is only fitting that this commitment has been extended to the 2020 Census, and ensuring that all voices are heard in the November election. I am thankful for Dawoodi Bohras’ diligent work throughout the 14th district and the United States.”
Michigan State Representative and House Democratic Leader Christine Greig [MI-37] added, “America is the greatest democracy in the world. But we must ensure that as many people as possible vote in the November elections so that all voices are heard.”
It is estimated that over 300 members of the Dawoodi Bohra community from across the Midwest attended the high profile online conference.
Distinguished speakers included:
- U.S. Senator Dick Durbin [IL]
- U.S. Congressman Raja Krishnamoorthi [IL-8]
- U.S. Congresswoman Brenda Lawrence [MI-14]
- Illinois State Senator Ram Villivalam
- Michigan State Representative and House Democratic Leader Christine Greig [MI-37]
- Ms. Theresa Le, U.S. Census Bureau, Chicago Region
- Dr. Debra Horner, League of Women Voters and the University of Michigan
- Rebecca Shi, Executive Director of American Business Immigration Coalition (ABIC)
Bohras are determined that all members are accounted for in the 2020 Census and local authorities receive the appropriate level of funding for key public services. Bohras also recognize that they are fortunate enough to live in a country that values democracy, and therefore it is crucial that we all vote and our voices are heard in November.