Raksha — meaning “protection” in several South Asian languages — is a Georgia-based nonprofit organization for the South Asian Community. Raksha’s mission is to promote a stronger and healthier South Asian community through confidential support services, education, and advocacy. Guided by values of consensus in decision-making, diversity in leadership, and the dignity and worth of every individual, Raksha strives to empower and serve the South Asian community.

Aparna Bhattacharyya and Tiloma Jayasinghe, the Executive Director of Sakhi for South Asian women in New York at the VAWA signing.

Raksha’s Executive Director was very fortunate to have been able to attend the VAWA Signing in Washington, D.C.  It was such an honor to witness the making of history.  The Violence Against Women Act has played a critical role in ensuring access to survivors of domestic violence, sexual assault, dating violence and stalking.   The newest version creates even more access for immigrants, LGBTQQI and Native American survivors.   Raksha is grateful to our legislators for passing VAWA.  A large portion of Raksha’s work is funded through Violence Against Women Act funds.

Indian-American Aparna Bhattacharyya honored by US as champions of change

Aparna Bhattacharyya from Atlanta was  honored by the United States to mark the Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month in May. She was part of 15 Asian American and Pacific Islander (AAPI) women chosen by White House as “champions of change” in recognition of her significant contribution to the community.

• Aparna Bhattacharyya : Executive Director of Raksha, in Atlanta, Georgia, is a passionate advocate for immigrant survivors of family and sexual violence and works to ensure that they have access to safety, justice and healing as well as the attorneys, law enforcement, and service providers are culturally competent to serve immigrant survivors.

Aparna and Tiloma with Senator Hirono from Hawaii.

Aparna and Tiloma with Senator Al Franken

Raksha, Executive Director with the Tiloma Jayasinghe, Executive Director from Sakhi for South Asian Women, Qudsia Raja with the YWCA, and Deepa Iyer, the Executive Director of South Asians Leading Together