WHAT IS FOGANA

FOGANA is an acronym for The Federation of Gujarati Associations of North America was founded in 1980.The aim was to bring all the Gujarati people living in North America closer together by promoting a common platform to sustain and perpetuate the cultural heritage of Gujarat, India. Initially, FOGANA aspired to meet the needs and welfare of Gujaratis while assisting them in adapting to the mainstream America. They hoped to do this by building up and  centralizing resources, energies and talents and thus create a stronger image of the Gujaratis.

Using such tools as folk dancing, which is an integral part of any celebration in the Gujarati culture, they initiated their effort by conducting folk dance competitions in various regions that culminated in finals in one or other North American city. Gujaratis from all corners gathered for these events. Workshops in cultural aspect such as dance, costumes communities, music etc. was offered. Also Drama and Debate competitions/festivals were conducted in some of the regions as well as a Conference in Washington. Visiting dignitaries in many fields were honored and brought in contact with the Gujarati community at large.

These initial years saw FOGANA progress steadily, but today our goals are expanding to meet our changing needs. Not only do we wish to combine the dynamic ability of the Gujarat's with the practicality of today's life, but make it relevant to the changing face of the community. Where the younger generation has an identity because it has been brought into the fold with a sense of security that has come from being well versed and knowledgeable in their heritage Where Gujarati language education is such that any American schools or Universities will accredit it. Where any social issues can be addressed with the full support of the community and especially those of us who have been blessed with the most. Where the Gujarati community is perceived by America as an asset and a model, dynamic ethnic group. The result, we feel will be a whole new generation of secure, informed and authoritative ambassadors where Gujarati heritage and its values is concerned. A breed whose scholarship and credentials will not be questioned by any, no matter how prestigious the institute or scholarly the individual.

If we do not wish to have our heritage interpreted by those whose perspectives we feel are full of incorrect assumptions or by those with 'fake and fluff' credentials, we need to give an alternative to that which is offered as our culture. We have the resources, capabilities and road maps in our midst to supply the know-how on the 'wherefores and wherein'. It is no longer acceptable to bemoan this or that state of affairs or the lack of our 'beloved values' when we continue either to sit on the side lines or to move with a lack of urgency, at 'snails pace'. We need to prioritize, to roll up our sleeves and try to do something about it, not tomorrow, or in a little while, but today, right now?. For all around us the technical age is whizzing past and our youngsters are riding its wave. They will not wait. They are with us today but tomorrow they will be off !

So we invite all Guajarati's to participate and commit to a cause that, if we think about it, is as worthy as any that demands and gets support.

President FOGANA