WASHINGTON, D.C. — July 15, 2026 — The Lead America Foundation, in partnership with the Interfaith Leadership Alliance of Washington DC and Natya Margam, proudly presents a historic interfaith gathering to celebrate the 250th anniversary of American Independence.
This powerful celebration will honor the enduring “Soul of America” under the unifying theme Unity in Diversity, bringing together visionary leaders, community champions, and patriots from all faiths and backgrounds. Together, they will reaffirm the core values that define the American spirit and renew their commitment to building a more perfect union — a beacon of hope and human potential for generations to come.
Signature Gala Event Details:
Date & Time: Sunday, July 19, 2026 | 6:00 PM – 9:00 PM EST
Location: Southern Asian Adventist Church, 2001 E Randolph Rd, Silver Spring, MD 20904
Registration: https://america250gala.eventbrite.com
Access: Free Entry | Free Parking | All Are Welcome
Media Partners: India Abroad, South Asian Herald
About Lead America
Lead America is a dynamic, all-volunteer, mission-driven organization dedicated to elevating civic engagement, cultivating principled leadership, and strengthening national unity. By empowering local talent and providing the structure for meaningful service, Lead America inspires individuals to address pressing community challenges while championing the foundational values of Connection, Innovation, Service, Stewardship, and Trust.
Under the visionary leadership of Bridge Builder and Community Leader Rajesh Gooty, President, Lead America has served for years as a powerful bridge for interfaith understanding and collaboration.
The Interfaith Leadership Alliance of Washington DC is a network of people of different faiths and beliefs working together to fulfill America’s promise of religious freedom and civil rights for all.
Natya Margam (the path to the Divine through performing arts) beautifully blends the ancient Indian classical dance form of Bharatnatyam with modern American arts and society.
Distinguished Patrons of the Lead America Advisory Council:
Dr. Bharat Barai, Chief Patron
“A nation’s greatness is measured not just by its power, but by its capacity to embrace diversity while remaining united in purpose. As we mark 250 years of American Independence, this gala stands as a testament to the enduring American ideal — that out of many, we are one.”
Dr. Suresh C. Gupta, Grand Patron, an eminent pulmonologist in Maryland and former Head of the Maryland Board of Physicians: “America’s success is built on the foundations of inclusivity, compassion, humane and respectful treatment of all, and courage of conviction. No other nation has transformed itself so magnificently as America in the last century, and this is what we are celebrating in its 250th year of Independence.”
Mr. Mohinder Gulati, Patron, former COO of a UN organization and Advisor to the World Bank, stated: “250 years ago, a new nation was born out of strife, injustice, and colonial subjugation. Its clarion call was equality, life, liberty, and pursuit of happiness. Every time our nation faced a challenge, it fought with courage and firmly held its moral anchor. It emerged as a global beacon of freedom, democracy and hope… Today, as a nation of multiple faiths, a bouquet of ethnicities, an orchestra of languages, a rainbow of colors, we stand as a testimony to that shining city on the hill our founding fathers built.”
Mr. Sant Gupta, Patron and Advisor
“America has always been a bold experiment in freedom and human dignity. This 250th anniversary is not merely a commemoration — it is a call to every generation to protect, preserve, and pass on the sacred values of liberty, justice, and opportunity for all.”
Dr. Krishna Madiraju, Chairman, Lead America
“Unity in Diversity is more than a theme — it is the living heartbeat of America. Through this interfaith celebration, we reaffirm our shared commitment to the timeless principles that have made this nation a shining city upon a hill and a beacon of hope for the world.”
Dr. Siva Subramanian, Patron and Advisor
“In a world often divided, America continues to show that faith, freedom, and fellowship can coexist and flourish. This historic milestone invites us all to rise above differences, celebrate our common humanity, and strengthen the bonds that hold our great republic together.”
“America’s 250-year journey is a powerful reminder that true strength lies in our ability to unite across differences. From every corner of the world, people have come here not just to live, but to dream, contribute, and thrive. This interfaith gala is a celebration of that shared dream — one nation, under God, indivisible, with liberty and justice for all.”
Request to Join as Partners:
Lead America warmly invites partners, donors, and community patrons to help make this milestone celebration a resounding success.
Donation Options:
- Zelle: +1 (703) 725-2680
- PayPal: paypal.me/LeadAmerica
- Venmo: venmo.com/leadamerica
- Cash App: $leadamerica
- Checks: Payable to Lead America Inc. (Mailing address available upon request)
Media & Sponsorship Inquiries:
Lead America | +1 (703) 666-9000 | [email protected]
Please Join us on July 19 as we celebrate the Soul of America and reaffirm the timeless promise of liberty, unity, and opportunity for all.
Pranavi Sharma
Deputy Editor
India Abroad
