What is The BRAIN ?

The BRAIN, a tax-exempt, non-profit organization under Section 501(C)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code, was established in 2013 by a board of former Bhutanese citizens. Its mission is to facilitate research, discussions, and the dissemination of knowledge through regular public networking. The organization emphasizes independent, interdisciplinary research rooted in community knowledge, history, culture, and politics, without taking institutional stances on issues.

The Board of Directors, composed of community members from various backgrounds, is responsible for The BRAIN’s leadership, integrity, and financial health. The organization serves as a platform for archiving historical artifacts, documents, and personal stories of Nepali-speaking southern Bhutanese people, both in the diaspora and within Bhutan. Key initiatives include collecting and preserving documents, stories, and books on Bhutan, along with producing a yearly journal.

The BRAIN’s research efforts aim to address the lack of documented Bhutanese history, focusing on the exile experience and the circumstances leading to it. Through collecting documents, personal narratives, and media, the organization seeks to create a comprehensive record of the communitys struggles and achievements. This research, conducted by Bhutanese scholars and a network of affiliated researchers, will highlight the perspectives and experiences of the evicted Bhutanese community.

The BRAIN’s repository, being developed in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, will house rare books and documents, offering valuable resources for future research. Oral history is a critical focus, with efforts to capture and preserve stories from the older generation, ensuring they are not lost over time.

Outreach efforts within the community seek active participation and support for long-term projects that require substantial funding. The organization relies on tax-deductible contributions and community giving to sustain its initiatives. Donations are recognized, and financial accountability is maintained, inviting supporters to join in preserving Bhutanese history for future generations.