Report · Congress & Diaspora

Diaspora as Diplomacy: Pakistani-Americans and the Policy Conversation

How Pakistani-American communities engage with US policy, and how that engagement can become more informed and effective.

The U.S. Capitol in Washington, D.C. under a clear sky

Key takeaways

  • Community energy is high; pathways into policy are not always clear.
  • Credible, accessible information is the biggest gap.
  • Structured engagement with offices builds lasting relationships.

Pakistani-Americans are among the most civically engaged communities in the country, but much of that energy never reaches the policymakers who could use it. This report examines why, and what would help.

Drawing on conversations with community leaders, congressional staff and civic organizations, we describe the most effective models for engagement and outline how the Institute can support them.

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