The Indian American community in Frisco, which is approximately 18 miles south of Plano, is facing increasing challenges, including protests against the Karya Siddhi Hanuman Temple. This temple, established in 2008, has grown to accommodate 1,600 worshippers, attracting many Indian American residents to the area.
Recently, protests have emerged, with demonstrators using megaphones and displaying signs that include messages like "Don’t India My Texas." Local residents have countered these protests, showing support for the temple. Laxmi Tummala, a temple trustee, remarked that love triumphed over hate during these events.
Despite these supportive actions, there has been a notable rise in anti-Indian sentiment in Frisco, which has a population of around 237,000, with one-third being Asian, primarily Indian Americans. Online attacks against this community have increased, often originating from outside the city. Controversial remarks by mayoral candidate Rod Vilhauer have also fueled tensions, as he suggested that Indian American political influence could disrupt local culture.
Indian Americans have been part of Texas since the late 1960s, finding success in various industries. However, incidents of racism have become more visible, including a 2022 assault on an Indian American woman and her friends in Plano. As Frisco evolves into a significant economic center, the community faces a backlash from some groups who feel threatened by its growth.
Source: texasmonthly.com.
