Founded in 2001 by Ann Lata Kalayil, K. Sujata, and Padma Rangaswamy, the South Asian American Policy & Research Institute (SAAPRI) is a nonprofit, nonpartisan organization dedicated to advancing justice and equity for South Asian Americans. Based in Chicago, SAAPRI is proudly South Asian woman-founded and led. In 2019, Shobhana Johri Verma became SAAPRI’s fourth Executive Director, later transitioning into the organization’s first full-time Executive Director.
For much of its early history, SAAPRI operated as a volunteer-led organization, driven by a shared commitment to community empowerment. At a time when few organizations focused on the South Asian American experience, SAAPRI emerged as a leader in research-driven, nonpartisan policy advocacy—filling a critical gap in addressing the diverse and evolving needs of the community.
SAAPRI was founded on the principles of bridging gaps, fostering unity, and amplifying the voices of South Asian Americans. Today, SAAPRI continues this mission through data-driven research, policy advocacy, and community engagement, ensuring that South Asian Americans are seen, heard, and represented.
OUR MISSION
Through community-based research and partnerships, SAAPRI drives impactful policy changes at the local, regional, and national level. We are dedicated to empowering and advocating for the South Asian American community by advancing data equity and ensuring representation that truly reflects their diverse experiences.
WHO WE SERVE
The Needs of the South Asian American Population
South Asian Americans are one of the fastest-growing communities in the U.S., with over 6 million people nationwide. While traditionally concentrated on the East and West Coasts, South Asian populations are now expanding in the Midwest, with cities like Chicago, Detroit, and Dallas seeing significant growth. In Illinois, South Asians make up the largest subgroup of the Asian American population, having grown 119% since 2000.
Despite this rapid growth, South Asian Americans continue to face formidable challenges, including policy exclusion, lack of data representation, and systemic barriers to resources and opportunities. Community organizations struggle to advocate effectively due to a lack of funding, infrastructure, and access to research. Without comprehensive data and policy-driven solutions, the needs of South Asian Americans remain invisible to decision-makers.
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Our Vision
SAAPRI envisions a future where South Asian Americans are empowered, their voices are heard, and their needs are addressed through:
✔ Data-driven advocacy that leads to meaningful policy changes
✔ An inclusive and collaborative community that drives systemic change
✔ Stronger representation in policy and decision-making spaces
✔ A sense of belonging where South Asian Americans are recognized as integral members of American society
How We Make This Vision a Reality
SAAPRI works to ensure South Asian Americans are seen, valued, and represented through:
- Research & Data Advocacy: Filling critical information gaps to drive policy solutions.
- Policy & Civic Engagement: Partnering with decision-makers to push for fair representation.
- Community Collaboration: Strengthening networks within and beyond the South Asian ecosystem.
- Education & Awareness: Making South Asian American histories, struggles, and contributions visible in broader societal conversations.
Through intentional research, policy action, and community partnerships, SAAPRI is building a future where South Asian Americans are fully embraced as active, engaged, and influential members of American society.
OUR FUNDING
SAAPRI is proudly supported by individual donors, community organizations, state and local institutions, and foundations. Their generosity enables us to conduct research, advocate for policy change, and empower South Asian American communities.
Your support fuels our work and helps drive meaningful change. Join us in making an impact—donate today!