New York: Priti (Parakh) Dhariwal, a proud Delihite, had her well-deserved win as Councilwoman Elect for River Edge, New Jersey in the November elections.
With roots in Delhi, when life took her to the States 20 years ago, the seed for giving back to the community always stayed inside her.
Being selected as a cultural ambassador from India, by Rotary International in the year 2000, was pivotal in making her appreciate the similarities in diversity in the Western world. When life got her settled in New Jersey with her husband and three kids, Priti started getting more involved with her town community, especially Indian Americans, creating a platform through diverse cultural events, food drives, International Yoga Day, meditation and more. She has been recognized by her town, County, and state officials for her achievements and hard work in preserving Indian cultural heritage in the United States for many years.
Her dedication and passion for serving the community went further when she got a seat through the Democratic Party to run in the general elections in the USA this November. As a notable figure in River Edge, a suburb of New York, her involvement in various initiatives showcased her commitment to the community.
Priti Dhariwal won the local elections and was one of the only Indian Americans in her county at that level. She is the Councilwoman Elect and shall be sworn in at the oath ceremony, on January 6, for a term of three years.
“Just being part of the US Presidential ballot was a big deal for me. And now bleeding blue in a red Tsunami is the cherry on top!” says Dhariwal. “I wish more women would stand in politics. I wish more hardworking honest people wouldn't shy away from running in the elections. Unless you are there, the change can’t happen!"
Both Priti’s daughters are Girl Scout Gold Award recipients, the highest award a Scout gets in the United States. Her son is thriving to be an Eagle Scout, which only 3% of Americans might ever achieve. “The seed that my parents sowed in me of always giving back, I’m happy it’s reaping in my children too. I grew up seeing my dad make generic medicines in his dispensary to serve the poor and never owned a Mercedes. I have seen my mom delivering patients for free most of her life. I have seen my dad resiliently work 24/7 even during COVID-19 times, at the age of 75 and when asked to rest, he always mentioned that his patients needed him.”
Dhariwal is a Certified Montessori teacher, Certified Yoga Instructor, and a Licensed Realtor in New Jersey.
