The Immigration and Nationality Act of 1965 enabled many changes for the Indian American community. The law relaxed many previous immigration restrictions, including quotas based on national origin. People with highly specialized skills or advanced degrees in certain fields were given preference for entry to the United States, and spouses, children, and relatives could enter more easily through the “family reunification” preference. This system of immigration, with some modifications, is still practiced today.

This law reshaped the Indian American community. According to the 1975 Census, “Asian Indians” numbered over 175,000—an astonishing 93 percent were classified as “professional/technical workers.” These doctors, engineers, and scientists sought professional advancement and brought family members to the US.

This module uses demographics, or statistics and data, to provide a fuller understanding of the Indian American community and the impact of the 1965 Immigration Act. We will also learn how these statistics obscure Indian Americans’ experiences of racism and violence and how they have resisted over the years.