Fremont’s first Indian-American mayor has big plans for East Bay city

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Raj Salwan, the newly elected mayor of Fremont, is breaking new ground as the city’s first Indian-American leader.

He is attempting to acclimate to his new position after being sworn in on December 10. He had already been involved in Fremont politics, though.

In 2005, Salwan started working for the city as the commissioner of human relations. After that, he became a councilman, then the deputy mayor, and finally the mayor. In addition, he has spent the last 25 years working as a veterinarian.

“Having my father swear me in was a memorable occasion. Salwan told CBS News Bay Area, “[It] kind of remembers where I came from and also acknowledges his contributions to get us to where we are now.”

Salwan was born in India and, at the age of six, relocated to Fremont. He expressed his pride in having grown up in the city, which is home to a large Asian American population.

“I take pride in my identity. And I want everyone to be proud of their individuality. You know, folks were insecure while I was growing up here. I had to prove myself all the time. And I don’t want my kids or other people’s kids to feel or be insecure like that,” the mayor stated.

He continues by saying that as mayor, he intends to take on a number of challenges head-on, such as enhancing public safety and combating homelessness. He said that during the previous two years, the city had a 21% decrease in homelessness.

“Encampments are being actively managed by us. Our medical team, which includes a police officer, a social worker, and a mental health professional, is going out there. Therefore, we’re always checking in with them to see how we can support them,” Salwan stated.

The mayor also mentioned his desire to enlarge the map of Fremont.

Including Fremont in the “big four.” As you are aware, we frequently hear about San Francisco, San Jose, and Oakland. However, he continued, “I believe Fremont is right there.”

Additionally, the community expressed gratitude and pride in Salwan’s leadership in Fremont.

Vijaya Aasuri, a 35-year Fremont resident, stated, “We’re very proud of him being the trailblazer for the entire Indian American community.” “He understands the rich culture of Fremont.”

Approximately 37% of the city’s population is Indian-American. Salwan also mentioned his desire to bring downtown back to life.

“This is where it used to stop. It simply stopped being a shopping mall. In order to connect it to Fremont Boulevard, we constructed this new street. “And on the other side, it connects to Fremont Hub,” Salwan said.

“The goal is to carefully turn what is essentially a suburban town into an urban one. So that means getting more entertainment and nightlife,” he continued.

According to the mayor, the city intends to construct commercial structures with retail establishments at the base and residential units at the top.

“People frequently comment, ‘There’s not enough to do. More excitement is what I need. For instance, on weekends, my kid must travel to San Francisco. He shouldn’t be forced to do that, then. Everything ought to be able to be here,” Salwan remarked.

“It’s important to stay true to myself in this next chapter of my life,” he stated.

“Rakhi is a celebration that we celebrate. The Rakhi is essentially tied to you by your sister. Thus, it symbolizes the relationship between a brother and sister,” the mayor explained while displaying his bracelet.

As he sets the path for the upcoming generation of leaders, Salwan promises to remain loyal to his roots and identity.

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