As more Asian Americans call Maryland home, they are becoming a force in elections

Looking out over dancers decked out in glittering dresses and stalls selling bejeweled bangles, Indira Sharma took the stage at a Diwali celebration in Ellicott City recently and encouraged those gathered to cast their ballots this fall. “I urge you to vote this election, and do not just vote along your party lines,” she told a gathering of a few hundred, her voice echoing through the venue. “We’re very quick to vote Republican, Democrat, independent. I ask that you vote smart this election. Vote for issues that matter to you, the Indian community.” Diwali Mela was a chance for families to revel in the popular Hindu festival, which celebrates the victory of good over evil and light over darkness. It was also an opportunity for political candidates — many of whom were dressed in traditional Indian saris or kurtas — to court Howard County voters, a growing segment of whom are Asian American.