“Injustice anywhere is a threat to justice everywhere.”

- Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.

Today, as we celebrate the life and legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., I’m reminded of another great figure in my life who inspired me to give back to my community.

Visionary, peacemaker, and Indian national hero Mahatma Gandhi’s philosophy of satyagraha has been a strong influence on my life and organizing. Growing up, I read stories about the Mahatma (“Great One”) – a man who believed so strongly in a people-powered movement that he managed to lead the Subcontinent to independence. India’s political landscape was forever changed by the revolution he sparked.

Gandhiji, as he is affectionately known, was a community organizer, and his work greatly influenced Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Both advocated for fairness, equality, and a country that was stronger because of our collective experiences.

Five years ago, I got involved with the Obama campaign because I saw a chance to be a part of the same movement that Gandhiji and Dr. King talked about – the idea that everyone has a shot at their dream, and that a country’s responsibility to its citizens is to make that dream a reality.

The reason I’m organizing in 2012 is that I know this is one of the most important elections of my lifetime.

I believe in the dream of an America where everyone has a fair shot at reaching their full potential, and I believe that President Obama is tirelessly working to obtain that dream for each and every one of us.

Today, I’m recommitting to fighting for a victory in November, and honoring those before me who fought for the America we’re striving towards.

Barack Obama once said that “one voice can change a room.” Together, as the AAPI community, our voices can change this nation.

I’m in for 2012 – are you?