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Lead America 250 Freedom & Liberty Gala, a signature celebration marking the nation’s 250th anniversary and honoring the ideals that have shaped the American experience, brought together community leaders, elected officials, military veterans, faith leaders, entrepreneurs, healthcare professionals, students, and families at the Southern Asian Seventh-day Adventist Church in Silver Spring, Maryland, on July 19, 2026.
Organized by Lead America under the leadership of Rajesh Gooty, the gala featured “patriotic tributes, interfaith dialogue, youth leadership initiatives, cultural performances, recognition of community champions,” and reflections on the shared responsibility of every generation in shaping America’s future.
The program included a “250 Seconds of Gratitude” tribute honoring veterans, first responders, educators, healthcare professionals, and volunteers. Educational segments highlighted the nation’s history, immigrant contributions, constitutional legacy, entrepreneurship, and civic engagement. The event also celebrated youth leadership through a “Youth Pledge for America’s Next 250 Years,” recognizing the next generation as stewards of the country’s future.
Speaking at the event, Leesburg Mayor Kelly Burk said, “As our nation prepares to celebrate its 250th anniversary, we have a remarkable opportunity to reflect on the values that have defined America for nearly two and a half centuries: freedom, democracy, opportunity, and service to one another.”
Burk said these ideals have drawn people from every corner of the world and have endured because each generation has accepted the responsibility to strengthen communities and ensure that America remains a place where people of every background can “contribute, belong, and thrive.”
Reflecting on patriotism and national identity, Montgomery County Councilmember Andrew Friedson said, “You can be deeply patriotic and devoutly Jewish, like I am. You can have strong ties to India and be a deeply patriotic American.”
He told the audience that it is important to understand both their cultural heritage and their connection to the values that define America today.
“So, to me, that is what patriotism is,” Friedson said, adding that he is proud to represent what he described as the most religiously diverse community in the country.
A highlight of the evening was an Interfaith Leadership Conversation chaired by Srilekha Palle, which brought together representatives from 14 faith traditions to affirm that freedom of conscience, respect for religious diversity, and shared service remain foundational strengths of the American story.
Dr. Siva Subramanian, who participated in the interfaith segment, said the gala was more than a celebration of the nation’s history. It was a celebration of the “soul of America.”
He said Mahatma Gandhi demonstrated that “truth, humility, and non-violence” possess the greatest power on earth. He added that leaders, nations, and traditions across the world recognize the common message that “our humanity is greater than our differences,” and said he believes interfaith unity helps sustain the soul of humanity.
Sousan Abadian; Nissim Reuben; Pastor Rufus; Imam Usama Rehman; Venerable Bhante Uparatana; Sister Jenna; Farzad Aidun; Anthony Vance; Eric Baxter; Kamlesh Shah; Harminder Kaur; and Rizwan Jhaka also spoke at the interfaith segment representing different faiths.
Virginia House of Delegates member J.J. Singh shared his parents’ journey to America and reflected on their experiences after immigrating. He also emphasized the importance of the First Amendment and the freedom to practice different faiths in Virginia while acknowledging the contributions of Indian Americans in fields including technology and education. Singh said he is proud to serve in the Virginia General Assembly and to have the opportunity to help shape a better future.
Gooty said, “America’s 250th anniversary is not simply a celebration of our past. It is an invitation to build our future together. Lead America exists to inspire servant leadership, civic engagement, and unity across generations and communities. We are grateful to every volunteer, partner, and participant who joined us in reaffirming the values that continue to make America a beacon of opportunity and freedom.”
Dr. Krishna Madiraju of Century Pediatrics and a Lead America executive leader said, “Children represent America’s next 250 years. Investing in youth leadership, character, education, and community service is one of the greatest responsibilities we share.”
According to Dr. Madiraju, the gala demonstrated that when families, healthcare professionals, educators, and community leaders come together, both communities and the nation are strengthened.
Interfaith Leadership Chair Palle said that although faith traditions differ, the values they teach, “compassion, humility, service, respect, and love for humanity,” are remarkably consistent.
“Our interfaith dialogue reminded us that freedom of religion is strengthened when we learn from one another and work together in service to our communities,” she added.
Indrani Davaluri, author of Natyam and Cultural Program Chair, said, “Culture has a unique ability to unite people beyond language, geography, and background. Through literature, music, and dance, we celebrate not only our diverse heritage but also the shared American ideals that allow every culture to flourish. The arts continue to inspire understanding, hope, and belonging.”
Gala Co-chair Elisha Pulivarti said the event reflected the power of collaboration and was made possible through the dedication of volunteers, community partners, sponsors, and individuals who believe leadership begins with service.
“Together we demonstrated that diverse communities can unite around common values and shared purpose,” he added.
Harsha K. Rajasimha, founder and executive chair of the Indo US Organization for Rare Diseases, founder and CEO of Jeeva Clinical Trials Inc., and Awards Chair for the gala, said, “America’s greatest strength has always been its ability to bring together people of different backgrounds around shared ideals of liberty, opportunity, innovation, and service.”
Rajasimha said that as the nation commemorates 250 years of its history, citizens are reminded that the next chapter will be written not only by elected leaders but also by scientists, entrepreneurs, educators, healthcare professionals, veterans, faith leaders, volunteers, and young people who choose to serve something greater than themselves.
“Events like these inspire us to continue building a more compassionate, innovative, and united America for generations to come,” Rajasimha added.
The gala also featured the launch of Natyam, authored by Davaluri.
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