About us

Who we are

We believe in the power of a Dharmic life and will advocate for the right of all youth to follow a Dharmic path

CYAN was started to provide Hindu youth on US college campuses a forum to advocate for their rights.  

We believe in our values and our right to practice those values without intimidation or fear.  

We oppose all forms of discrimination in school and college campuses.  We advocate against all forms of Hinduphobia.

The Issue:

Hindu youth in high schools, colleges, and workplaces frequently face a complex dilemma. Many have been brought up within the Hindu community, actively engaging in traditions and festivals. Yet, they often confront an unsupportive and a hostile environment on campuses. Being proud of one’s Hindu identity, wearing Hindu symbols, or simply displaying love for India are linked to extremism and oppression of minorities. Youth are gaslighted for advocating for the rights of indigenous Hindu minorities or highlighting violence and genocide against Hindus even when other religious groups are given the space to talk about violence against them without being subject to hate and silencing.

Compounding this challenge is the lack of a strong support system or network to navigate the various issues they encounter. They lack a vibrant youth community to stand alongside in protecting and preserving Hindu Dharma and pushing back against these anti-Hindu narratives.

The Solution:

CYAN empowers young Hindus aged 18-35 to become effective advocates for our community. By providing a supportive network and resources, CYAN enables youth to mobilize on and off campuses and engage with experts, lawmakers, university officials, allies, and various stakeholders. This ensures that the they can challenge misinformation, have an authentic voice in matters, and champion a positive understanding of Hinduism.

Many students are afraid to stand alone for they may be “canceled” by their friends or on social media, or for being attacked for speaking the truth. With CYAN

CYAN Focus Areas – 

  • Hinduphobia and anti-Hindu bias awareness
    Organizing workshops, teach-ins, and grassroots campaigns on campuses in partnerships with organizations, field experts, and scholars regarding topics related to Hinduphobia, bullying, and biases faced by Hindu students.

  • Public policy
    Conducting workshops, information sessions, and conferences on and off campuses by bringing field experts, community organizers, scholars, and policymakers to train students on getting involved in various opportunities in student government, public policy, administration and other related fields.

  • Scholarships and research
    Providing opportunities for students to pursue research, projects, and writings around narratives on Hinduism and India.

  • Speaker tours and talks
    Hosting renowned speakers, scholars, and thinkers on and off campuses to speak on issues impacting Hindus.
 

CYAN’s Initiatives Include:

  • Expanding on major college campuses
  • Launching national awareness campaigns
  • Conducting research and advocacy
  • Developing leadership programs and opportunities
  • Collaborating with partner organizations