Why is the right obsessed with Indians all of a sudden?
For many Texans, the second weekend of September was a moment for the state to shine. The Texas Longhorns, the University of Texas at Austin’s storied football team, upset the No. 1 Ohio State Buckeyes in a dramatic comeback win. But for Bo French, the Republican candidate for railroad commissioner, a powerful position that was […]
A recent incident has brought national attention to a growing trend of anti-Indian sentiment on the right. In September 2022, Texas Republican Bo French posted a photo of a crowd celebrating at a UT football game, expressing concern over the large number of South Asian students in attendance. French argued that the influx of immigrants had displaced "Americans," fueling fears of a "desi takeover" in Texas.
This post has since become a flashpoint for a far-right campaign to demonize people of Indian descent. Indian Americans in Texas have expressed shock and concern, but remain hopeful they can continue to integrate successfully into communities. While some influencers have capitalized on this narrative, targeting Indians based on misconceptions about competition in education and jobs, it's important to note that Indian Americans are among the most successful and well-integrated diaspora groups in the United States.
Despite this, the rise in prejudice highlights the increasingly hostile environment facing minorities, particularly those perceived as successful and well-integrated within society.
Written by urgent.news from Vox's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
