As a parent of U.S-born children, I am on a critical crossroad concerning my nationality. My children and I are part of a larger community of Indians living overseas who long for a chance to become dual citizens.

While India has a Persons of Indian Origin (PIO) card and an Overseas Citizen of India (OCI) card, none of them grant full citizenship rights, such as the right to vote or to run for political office. The Indian diaspora is estimated to be over 31.2 million across the globe, and yet, they are denied their dual citizenship rights. Dual citizenship will not only provide convenience during travel and provide rights to Indians living overseas but will also strengthen cultural, economic, and international ties between India and the countries where the Indian diaspora resides.

India stands among the 50 countries in the world that do not allow dual citizenship, but change is possible — as it happened in Australia and the UK who altered their nationality laws to permit dual citizenship, recognizing the advantages it holds for their overseas communities.

We now urge the Indian government to consider permitting dual citizenship for Indians residing overseas. Enable us to retain our cultural and national identity while contributing fully to our adopted country. Stand with us and legitimise dual citizenship - because identity does not need to be a choice, but a right. Please sign this petition.