Description

 "Speak up. Your voice is important." In this episode of the Free Speech Forward podcast, Chris and Joia speak with Sangeetha Shankar, who shares her journey as an advocate for free speech, a journey rooted in her upbringing in India and her experiences as a homeschooling mother. Sangeetha discusses the challenges faced by Hindu communities, particularly in light of the SB 403 bill in California, which she argues would lead to racial profiling and discrimination. She also emphasizes the importance of free speech for individual and societal flourishing, drawing on her Hindu beliefs that celebrate freedom and diversity of thought. 

Finally, Sangeetha offers insights on effective communication and encourages listeners to find their voice and their community in the face of cultural pressures. She would like to suggest the following tips to help others in sharing their voice:

• Write, write, write- long-form, journal writing works wonders to get your genuine voice out. 
• Do self podcasts -record yourself on the camera and see how you sound. 
• Talk aloud in the bathtub!
• Talk to yourself in the mirror. 
• Practice in front of friends, friendly communities like Toastmasters. 
• Get out of your comfort zone and speak on uncomfortable issues.

Learn more about Hinduism in America and Sangeetha’s work at: https://www.hinduamerican.org/