A Florida city has declared November 17 as the 'Kashmiri Hindu Heritage Day', in recognition of the resilience of Kashmiri Hindus who were displaced from their homeland two decades ago.
The proclamation in this regard was issued by Andre Pierre, mayor of the city of North Miami - one of the largest cities in South Florida.

"We in North Miami, which has such a wonderful diversity, are glad that we are part of this function that showcases Kashmiri Hindu culture," Pierre said as he handed the proclamation to the city's Kashmiri community.

The proclamation noted that 500,000 Kashmiri Hindus were dislodged by acts of terrorism and many of them migrated to the USA and today 22 years later, a majority of them have not returned to their place of birth due to fear but have retained and preserved their 5000 year old art, culture and cuisine.

A function in this regard was sponsored and organised by author Chandramukhi Ganju, with the support of Kashmir Hindu Foundation and North Miami Library.