Oral History

IAM History Initiative - Oral History Projects

The India Association of Minnesota [IAM], is a not-for-profit organization dedicated to community service since its inception in 1973. IAM aims to build a strong and cohesive community of Asian Indian origin people, through its three-prong mission of Culture, Charity, and Connections.

Seeking to build bridges of understanding that promote cultural exchange and preserve our heritage, IAM started its History Initiative in the early 1990s, with significant support and encouragement from the Minnesota Historical Society, especially Shri Jim Fogerty, then head of documentary programs of MNHS.

The scope of the initiative includes all Minnesotans of Asian Indian origin, in the Twin Cities area and Outstate, including Language organizations (Minnesota Malayalee Association), Religious organizations (Sikh Society, Hindu Society), Service organizations (School of India for Languages and Culture, India Association of Minnesota), Art organizations (Katha Dance, Indian Music Society of Minnesota), Diaspora (Guyanese East Indians), among others.