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Committee hears bipartisan support for resolution condemning anti‑Hindu bias
Summary
Senate File 4115, a resolution condemning anti‑Hindu bigotry and urging inclusion and training, was introduced by Sen. Limmer and recommended to go to Rules after testimony from Hindu community leaders and allied faith organizations.
The committee heard testimony supporting Senate File 4115, a resolution introduced by Sen. Limmer that condemns anti‑Hindu phobia and reaffirms Minnesota’s commitment to religious freedom and inclusion.
A representative of the Minnesota chapter of the Coalition of Hindus of North America recounted vandalism, desecration and online threats affecting Hindu temples and families in Minnesota and said roughly 400 community signatures supporting the resolution were collected quickly. The witness urged lawmakers to "name the problem" and said institutional recognition by the state would reassure families and encourage reporting.
Ethan Roberts of the Jewish Community Relations Council of Minnesota and the Dakotas testified in solidarity, saying the Jewish community supports naming and condemning religious bigotry and standing with Hindu Minnesotans.
Sen. Limmer described the measure as a "strong bipartisan message" and moved that SF4115 be recommended to the Rules Committee; the motion carried by voice vote. The resolution directs transmittal to the governor, attorney general and legislature and encourages state and local agencies, including law enforcement and schools, to enhance understanding of Hindu phobia and include the Hindu community in diversity and anti‑bias initiatives.
Next steps: SF4115 will be referred to the Rules Committee for scheduling on the Senate floor.
