New York: An influential American lawmaker has said that she would propose a legislation to posthumously award Mahatma Gandhi a Congressional Gold Medal for inspiring peaceful movements for civil rights around the world. This is the highest civilian award in the US.
Congresswoman Carolyn Maloney from New York made the announcement at the 38th India Day Parade, the annual extravaganza celebrating India's Independence Day. “Gandhi influenced so many people who have already received the medal, such as Martin Luther King Jr., Nelson Mandela, based on their non-violent leadership for justice. All of this was based on the teachings of Mahatma Gandhi,” Maloney said.
She said that she was soon going to introduce the legislation, and expressed confidence that the legislation would be successful. "Mahatma Gandhi’s historic Satyagraha movement of nonviolent resistance inspired a nation and the world. His example energises us to devote ourselves to the service of others. His legacy inspired civil rights movements around the globe, from Martin Luther King Jr.’s movement for racial equality to Nelson Mandela’s fight against apartheid."
She said that as a public servant, she was inspired by Gandhi's courage and example. "Let us all follow Gandhi's directive to be the change you wish to see in the world". If finally the award was bestowed on Gandhi, he would be the first Indian to receive a Congressional Gold Medal, an honour bestowed upon eminent leaders such as the first President of the US George Washington, Mandela, Mother Teresa and civil rights activist Rosa Parks.
