Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is SAADA?
SAADA is the South Asian American Digital Archive, non-profit organization based in Philadelphia, PA.
What is SAADA's mission?
SAADA creates a more inclusive society by giving voice to South Asian Americans through documenting, preserving, and sharing stories that represent their unique and diverse experiences.
What countries are in South Asia?
SAADA defines South Asia to include Bangladesh, Bhutan, India, Maldives, Nepal, Pakistan, and Sri Lanka. SAADA documents those in the United States who trace their heritage to South Asia and the many South Asian diaspora communities around the globe (such as in Trinidad, Uganda, Fiji, Guyana, UK, etc.)
How do I get started using the archive?
The Explore section of the website is a great place to start. In that section you can read an introduction to South Asian American history and learn more about the community today. All the materials SAADA collects are made freely accessible through this website. Browse and search the archive using the sidebar to the right.
Are financial contributions to SAADA tax deductible?
Yes. SAADA is recognized by the IRS as a 501(c)(3) not-for-profit organization, and as such all financial contributions to SAADA are tax deductible. Learn more about donating to SAADA on our Donate page.
What can SAADA offer you? Why should you include your materials in SAADA?
An archive is a place where professional archivists and curators care for and make accessible historically significant documents. SAADA is creating a digital repository where professional archivists and historians will care for digital copies of historically significant documents relating to South Asian Americans. SAADA can also provide the public with research access to the important information contained within records created by South Asian American organizations and individuals. By placing records in an archival repository like SAADA you take an important step toward their preservation and use-- and help shape the way the history of South Asian Americans will be written for future generations.
I have some materials that SAADA might like to include in its digital collection. Whom should I contact about this?
If you have materials that meet SAADA's collection development goals and that you would like to submit for inclusion in the digital archive, please contact us at contribute@saada.org.
Where are the materials included on the SAADA site physically located?
SAADA is an entirely digital repository. The materials included in the digital archive are physically dispersed in several private collections and archival repositories. For information on locating a particular collection, please contact us at use@saada.org.
How can I get involved?
SAADA welcomes the involvement of interested individuals. For more information on what you can do to help further SAADA's mission, please get in touch with us!
How can I contact SAADA?
You can email us at info@saada.org or reach us by phone at 215-259-8055. We look forward to hearing from you!