“The Nepali community in New York is also a minority within the minority community. However, most of the problems faced by the minority immigrant community are similar. Apart from that, the Nepali community also faces its own unique set of challenges,” says Urgen Sherpa, who has been actively involved in the Nepali community for a long time and is also the former president of the United Sherpa Association (USA), Inc.
As the Nepali and Nepali-speaking community in New York grows, so does the interest and participation of the Nepali community in local politics. The candidates’ interest in the Nepali community is also on the rise.
“But during elections, it appears that addressing the problems of the Nepali community is somewhat challenging for the candidates,” says writer Rajan Thapaliya, who has been living in Queens, New York, for more than a decade.
While the problems faced by the minority immigrant community are similar in terms of domestic workers’ issues, the rights of nail salon workers, language justice, access to local government resources, and representation, the Nepali community’s problems have their own unique aspects. However, members of the Nepali community have expressed that their representatives and candidates have not shown much interest in programs targeted at their community.
Former New York City Council candidate and Nepali social activist Nabaraj KC says, “Representatives or candidates have been responsive to various issues of the Nepali community, but there is a problem with gaining access.”
Language Barriers
Writer Thapaliya emphasizes, “Linguistic justice is not solely about language translation; it’s also about how community members understand government services and rights.”
He continues, “Firstly, there is a shortage of resources available in the Nepali language from local government. Secondly, there’s a problem because even when the government uses Nepali, it’s often complex and not easily understood by community members.”
“There are language classes available for immigrants, and the local government partners to provide such classes. However, many students struggle to learn the language because these classes are conducted entirely in English. Such classes would be more beneficial if the language instructors also understood Nepali. Whenever possible, only individuals fluent in Nepali should teach English,” Thapaliya suggests.
Nabaraj KC points out, “Due to language barriers, many opportunities, rights, and facilities provided by the local government remain unknown. In New York, there are facilities for taking the learner’s permit exam for a driver’s license and filling out DMV forms in Nepali. However, resources in the Nepali language are scarce in many other areas. Many hotline facilities do not offer services in Nepali.”
“When the local government provides various training programs, they are typically conducted in English. This presents a challenge for many members of the Nepali community who do not understand English. For instance, training programs for nail technicians or sanitation workers are conducted exclusively in English, creating a comprehension problem for participants,” Urgen Sherpa adds.
“Even in areas with a predominant Nepali community, local libraries do not have books and resources in the Nepali language. There are no Nepali speakers available, and even within the Nepali community, there are no Nepali language libraries or community halls for conducting programs in the Nepali language. Therefore, these issues are interconnected,” Thapaliya explains.
Lack of Access to Local Government Resources
Urgen Sherpa highlights that language is one of the reasons for difficulties in accessing local government resources, but other factors also contribute. He says, “Even without representation in local government, access to resources remains limited. When it comes to local government, the focus often seems to be solely on elections. However, political appointments to local government should also be proportionate and inclusive in terms of representation. Even if someone understands the language and is aware of the available resources, not having a representative from the Nepali community in the relevant body can still be problematic.”
Rajan Thapaliya suggests that the Nepali community is often left voiceless due to a lack of a proper platform to express their issues. He states, “Even those who understand the language may lack information about local government or state resources. There is a lack of awareness about how to access these resources, so public awareness programs regarding local government and state resources are essential.”
“Rights of undocumented immigrants are well-established at the local level, but a lack of public awareness hinders their utilization. Therefore, a comprehensive awareness program covering all available resources is necessary,” Urgen Sherpa adds.
Nabaraj KC emphasizes, “Lack of representation is the primary reason for unawareness of many opportunities and facilities provided by the local government. The community needs to be informed and take initiative to represent itself. Sometimes, failing to move forward can lead to falling behind.”
Lack of Training for Capacity Building
Urgen Sherpa suggests, “Various types of vocational training are also needed to enhance the capacity of the Nepali community. Providing vocational training could elevate the Nepali community’s overall skill level.”
“There is a need for various vocational training programs within the Nepali community. It’s important to offer training in business and office operations, job opportunities, and other relevant areas,” Nawaraj KC recommends.
Additionally, there is a need to recognize and celebrate Nepali festivals and culture. Last year, the New York State Parliament passed the Nepali American Heritage Day Resolution. This year, a resolution has been passed to celebrate International Everest Day. Thapaliya asserts, “Recognizing Nepali festivals and culture, including granting leave for celebrations like Lhosar and Dashain, is crucial. Without recognition, the new generation may feel uncomfortable celebrating Nepali festivals when they go out, wearing cultural attire or observing traditions like Tika.”
The Nepali community is linguistically and culturally diverse, with a significant number of speakers of languages other than Nepali. Different cultural features are also present within the Nepali community.
“It is essential to acknowledge Nepali festivals and culture, including providing time off for celebrations such as Lhosar and Dashain. Otherwise, the new generation may face difficulties when celebrating Nepali festivals outside their community,” Urgen Sherpa concludes.
Undocumented immigrants, regardless of their immigration status, encounter challenges accessing local resources. They are often unaware of facilities such as free legal services and healthcare. An undocumented Nepali individual shares, “I bring medicines from Nepal because I don’t know how to access healthcare services in New York.”
This article is part of U.S. Democracy Day, a nationwide collaborative on Sept. 15, the International Day of Democracy, in which news organizations cover how democracy works and the threats it faces. To learn more, visit usdemocracyday.org.
Kishor Panthi
View More PostsKishor Panthi is the founder and editor-in-chief of Khasokhas and NepYork. He is the author of three books, “Kampan,” "UNTRANSLATABLE" and “Zero Mile.” He writes about social issues, immigration, and politics.
