Vision
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Vision
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The
vision of USHA is
to be the effective voice of all Hindus in the United States and worldwide to protect
and promote the interests and rights of all those who believe in Dharma.
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Goals
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To educate members of the media, academia, and government about Hindu views and
opinions on important issues,
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To empower Hindus to attain their rightful position
in the international arena, and
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To strengthen the bonds between Hindus in America
and India , which is the spiritual and cultural mother of all Hindus.
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Who is a Hindu?
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Any person who believes in any of the religious traditions
born in the holy land of Bharat (India) is a Hindu. Thus, Hindus consists of all
those who follow any of the various traditions including, Vedanta, Sanatana, Arya
Samaj, Swaminarayan, Shaiva, Vaishnava, Boudh, Jain, Sikh, Shaakta, etc. The word
Hindu refers to a unique way of life, a culture, an ethos and a civilization. It
does not refer to any particular way of worship. It is a commonwealth of religions
based on certain eternal truths and Dharma. Hindus around the world trace their
spiritual roots to India. All Hindu religious traditions are based on Dharma.
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What
is Dharma?
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Dharma is a complex word. It has innumerable connotations depending on
usage such as duty, righteousness, etc. Its literal meaning is “That which sustains”.
Dharma is the greatest contribution of Hindus to the world. It is a code of conduct
developed in Bharat to sustain the harmonious functioning of society while facilitating
the growth or progress of the individual. Hindus believe that any human pursuit
, be it wealth, pleasure, or self-realization, must be based on the sound ethical
foundation of Dharma. Hence, Dharma was accepted by all persons who were in pursuit
of the highest truth or enlightenment. Dharma does not require one to believe in
any particular method of worship, any particular object of worship, or any particular
revelation or scripture. One can believe in Dharma even if he or she does not accept
the existence of a Supreme Being or God.
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Who Can Become a Member?
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Any Hindu, residing
in the United States or any of its territories, who subscribes to the vision and
goals of USHA is qualified to apply for membership. USHA membership is open to Hindu
Americans from Nepal, Bangladesh, India, Africa, Europe, Caribbean, or any other
region of the world. USHA membership is open to all Jains, Budhists, Sikhs, and
members of scores of other religious traditions, which are based on Dharma. Membership
is free and open to all Hindu college students in the United States.
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