PERSPECTIVES

My First Term is Done. I Already Have Plans on How to Make My Second Term Better

I went to Lansing to improve how we fund our public schools, and discovered an…

When I Came Out Happy: Confessions of a Proud Mother of a Queer, Nonbinary Child

The day my only child came out to me was one of the hardest in…

The Political Correctness of Greeting ‘Happy Holidays’ Robs Us the Joy of Celebrating Rich Diversity of Cultures

As December dawns, we often hear the politically correct greetings from everyone — “Happy Holidays”!…

A Nest for Lalitha: Ken Langer’s Novel is a Political Thriller that Mirrors Real India Straddling Two Worlds

Ken Langer has had many incarnations. His complex relationship with India began half a century…

A Free-Spirited Tomboy Breaks Social Boundaries and Learns About Cultures Off the Beaten Path in India

Here’s a travel documentary film unlike one you have seen before. It will remind you of the…

What We are Doing to Help Young Adults Cope with Loneliness and Stress During the Pandemic

Since the pandemic began, over 74% of adults report one or more adverse mental or…

Dear Mr. Joseph Epstein: Here’s Why My Mother Kalpana Parlikar is Dr. Kalpana Parlikar

Dear Mr. Joseph Epstein: My mother’s name is Dr. Kalpana Parlikar. She has never delivered…

‘Kiddo’ in the Hallway: Dr. Jill Biden’s Ridicule Comes as No Surprise to Women in the American Academy

As a new Assistant Professor, I recall sitting in my office and a young man…

Free My Friend Faisal Khan From Jail and Free My Hindu Faith From Hindutva

Faisal Khan is a friend and an advisory board member of my organization Hindus for…

Grapes of Wrath: Why are Indian Farmers Protesting Against Modi Government’s New Agricultural Laws

The 2020 Indian farmers’ protest is a continuing demonstration against the three laws passed by the Indian Parliament in 2020. Led…

A Christmas Story: A Father’s Generosity. His Eye for Detail. Love of Beauty. Compassion.

He came home after a fortnight.  It was almost Christmas. We were waiting. Waiting for him.…

Why My Son is Confused About Pronouncing My Name and Why My Daughter Says ‘Luv Ya’?

I have a name crisis. Truth be told, even Kamala Harris, Vice President-elect, seems to…