[Congressional Record Volume 171, Number 88 (Friday, May 23, 2025)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E477]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




HONORING PRIYA PERSAUD FOR HER CONTRIBUTIONS TO CENTRAL FLORIDA DURING 
            ASIAN AMERICAN & PACIFIC ISLANDER HERITAGE MONTH

                                 ______
                                 

                            HON. DARREN SOTO

                               of florida

                    in the house of representatives

                          Friday, May 23, 2025

  Mr. SOTO. Mr. Speaker, Priya Persaud serves as the founder and 
director of the Devyani School of Cultural Arts. Her journey in dance 
commenced in 1992, during which she received training in Odissi dance 
at the Chitralekha Dance Academy and Bharatanatyam at the Sampradaya 
Dance Academy.
  In 2010, Priya committed to educating others about Indian dance and 
culture, integrating lessons on various Indian festivals, Hidni, and 
the profound significance of the postures and gestures in Indian dance. 
Her foremost passion lies in transmitting the rich Indian cultural 
heritage through the art of dance, and she takes great pleasure in 
witnessing her students and the community engage with and learn about 
Indian traditions.
  Over the past 15 years, the dancers from the Devyani School of 
Cultural Arts have showcased their talents across Orlando and 
Kissimmee, performing at venues such as Walt Disney World, Silver Spurs 
Arena, Kissimmee Lakefront Park, Boggy Creek Elementary School, and the 
Osceola Sheriff's Department.
  Priya has also been involved with various organizations that advocate 
for diversity and cultural acceptance, serving as a Steering Committee 
member for FusionFest, currently holding a board position with 
AsiaTrend, and collaborating with numerous local organizations in 
Central Florida, including the Indian American Business Associations 
and Chamber, Indian American Chamber of Commerce, TEMA, and the 
Association of Asian Cultural Festival.
  Cultural appreciation and education have consistently been a priority 
for Priya. She strives to bridge the divide between ignorance and 
acceptance regarding diversity. With 20 years of experience as a public 
sector employee, Priya takes pleasure in serving her community in 
various capacities. She aspires for her impact on the community and 
future generations to be beneficial, fostering an environment where 
diversity and cultural acceptance are standard practices.

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