[Congressional Record Volume 153, Number 173 (Thursday, November 8, 2007)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E2367]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                          INDIA HOUSE HOUSTON

                                 ______
                                 

                              HON. TED POE

                                of texas

                    in the house of representatives

                       Thursday, November 8, 2007

  Mr. POE. Madam Speaker, America, as a Nation made up of many 
cultures, has always been one to embrace traditions of the past, while 
at the same time looking towards the future. Members of the India House 
organization follow this same time honored philosophy. Their mission to 
``unite cultures, create bridges, and serve human needs,'' is a 
testament towards this group's significance. With over 120,000 Indian-
American's residing in the Houston area alone, the importance for 
community interaction becomes increasingly apparent.
  As the Indian population continues to grow throughout South East 
Texas, so does the need to raise awareness of their increasing 
footprint. India House has successfully stepped up to this challenge 
through diverse organizations provided for all Houstonians. Services 
ranging from legal advice and financial education to yoga and 
meditation are made available by the organization.
  Yet, until recently the rendering of these positive benefits was 
somewhat difficult resulting from their dispersed locations. In order 
to better connect the needs of their increasing community India House 
recently broke ground on their new facility. At 100,000 square feet it 
will be the largest of its kind in the Nation, offering over 500 
different activities to the community annually.
  Phase one of the projects will work towards further educating and 
assisting Houstonians, allowing them to thrive. This building, most 
importantly, will work towards meeting both the health as well as 
financial needs of the Indian-American population. Senior activities 
areas are also a part of the master plan, hoping to increase their 
social interaction. Yet perhaps the most important aspect included in 
this segment, comes with the availability to further ones education. 
Various classes, such as English, will be provided for members so that 
they may better become part of society.
  Showcasing and promoting Indian culture to the Houston community 
makes up much of the buildings second phase. The Cultural Arts Center 
is designed to house performances, relevant retail and craft shows, as 
well as food related events. By educating neighbors in Indian-American 
culture, this group takes positive strides towards becoming part of our 
Nation's future. While the initial construction concentrates on 
assisting members, this later development is particularly involved with 
celebrating tradition.
  India House recognizes the need to work together as a community, and 
to discern how to meet the needs of their population. Contemporarily, 
they are one of the largest legal Asian immigrant groups, with the 
highest level of educational qualifications surpassing any other ethnic 
group in America. Their impact on the future of our society is thus 
undeniable. However, the strides to become a working part of our 
Nation's economy and society through groups like India House, is 
unquestionably commendable.
  And that's just the way it is.

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