From ‘model minority’ to target of hate: Fearful silence among Indian-Americans

Months into US President Donald Trump’s second term, India has been in the news for reasons Indian-Americans never wished for. Long priding themselves on their high rates of education and success in the business world, the community now faces hostility unseen before.

Digital harassment targeting South Asians increased by 75% between December 2024 and January, according to a report by the nonprofit group AAPI Equity Alliance.

From viral videos mocking Indian festivals to angry online posts about being “job stealers”, the image of Indian-Americans is under strain. How did a community viewed itself as a “model minority” become a target of hate – and why are many too fearful to speak out?

The Indian-American population has surged to over 5 million – a 174% rise since 2000, making them the second-largest Asian group in the US, according to Pew Research Center.

It has a median income of $151,200 – far above the national average of $74,580. About 77% of Indian Americans hold a bachelor’s degree or higher, more than double the national average of roughly 36%, according to Pew Research Center’s 2023 analysis. Forty five percent of community members have post-graduate degrees, compared to the national average of 14%.

These successes, say observers, are fueling resentment.

“American politics always needs scapegoats,” said...

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