Draft:Moon Khan
Moon Khan is an Indian-American journalist, political leader, author, and community activist based in Lombard, Illinois, United States. He is widely known for his contributions to Asian American political empowerment, journalism, and community service.
He made history by becoming the first Asian American elected as Trustee of York Township in DuPage County, Illinois, serving two terms from 2005 to 2012. Over the years, he has been actively involved in political awareness campaigns, coalition building, immigrant advocacy, and community development initiatives.
Moon Khan has also worked as a journalist, columnist, motivational speaker, and media commentator while contributing to numerous ethnic and mainstream publications.
Early Life and Education
Moon Khan was born on 24 October 1955 in Muzaffarpur, Bihar, India. He later moved to the United States, where he pursued higher education and established his career in journalism, information technology, and public service.
He holds academic degrees including:
- Bachelor of Arts (B.A.)
- Master of Arts (M.A.)
- Master of Business Administration (M.B.A.)
In addition, he obtained professional certifications in computer networking including:
- MCSE (Microsoft Certified Systems Engineer)
- CNA (Certified Novell Administrator)
Career
Moon Khan has had a diverse professional career spanning journalism, politics, technology, and community activism.
He worked as the Director of Information Resources for a governmental agency in the United States, while simultaneously dedicating significant time to volunteer service and political advocacy.
As a journalist, he served as:
- Community Editor of the *India Tribune*
- Chief Editor of *Spotlight Weekly*
He also anchored the Community News segment of "Bharat Darshan", a cable television program serving the Indian community.
Moon has been a prolific writer, columnist, and motivational speaker, contributing articles and commentary to numerous ethnic and mainstream publications.
Political Career
Moon Khan is widely recognized for his political activism and community leadership.
He became the first Asian American elected Trustee of York Township in DuPage County, Illinois, serving from 2005 to 2012.
Because of his outreach work among the 50,000-strong Asian American community of DuPage County, he was appointed Asian American Liaison of the DuPage County Republican Party.
In 2016, he ran for DuPage County Recorder, receiving approximately 170,000 votes.
His mission has consistently focused on political empowerment and civic engagement of immigrant communities in the United States.
Community Leadership and Volunteer Service
Moon Khan has served on the board of more than two dozen community, charitable, and civic organizations, including:
- Asian American Institute – Director
- Asian American Journalists Association – Vice President
- Bihar Cultural Association – Founding President
- DuPage Chapters of American Cancer Society – Director
- United Way – Director
- India Development Service – Board Member
- Federation of Indian Associations – Secretary, Vice President, President-Elect
- Toastmasters International Cook County Chapter – Vice President and Area Governor
- Council of Islamic Organizations – Media Relations Committee Secretary
- Asian American Coalition – Media Relations Committee Chairman
- Islamic Society of North America Convention – Media Relations Chairperson
- Village of Bloomingdale Fourth of July Commission – Commissioner
- Republican Organizations of York Township – Committeeman
He also served on the board of the Illinois Ethnic Coalition, which worked with organizations such as the American Jewish Committee to support community services.
Advocacy and Public Engagement
Moon Khan has been a strong advocate for immigrant rights, multicultural cooperation, and political participation.
He has organized candidate forums, community awareness programs, and fundraising efforts for disaster victims.
Following the events of September 11, 2001, he actively encouraged American Muslims to publicly stand against terrorism and support American values. His efforts were praised in a Chicago Tribune editorial on October 9, 2001.
His advocacy work has earned him recognition as a bridge builder between diverse ethnic communities in the United States.
Media Appearances and Coverage
Moon Khan has been widely quoted and profiled in major newspapers and media outlets including:
- Chicago Tribune
- Chicago Sun-Times
- Daily Herald
- Daily Southtown
- India Tribune
- India Abroad
- Asian Week
- Daily Chronicle
- Hindustan Times
- The Muslim Observer
- Pakistan Link
He has also appeared on television and radio programs such as:
- Voice of America
- BBC World Service
- WTTW Channel 11 – *Chicago Tonight*
- WGN TV
- Fox Chicago
- Doordarshan (India)
- NDTV (India)
- Kolkata TV
- GEO TV (Pakistan)
- WGN Radio
- WBEZ / NPR
Author
Moon Khan is also an author.
In 2021, he published his memoir titled:
- Ganga to Mississippi – Walking With the Rainbow*
The book was co-authored with his son Shaan Khan and chronicles his journey from India to the United States and his experiences in community leadership and political activism.
Entrepreneurship
In addition to journalism and politics, Moon Khan is also involved in real estate entrepreneurship.
As a licensed real estate consultant, he manages several investment properties and participates in real estate development projects.
Awards and Honors
Moon Khan has received numerous awards recognizing his community service and leadership, including:
- Americanism Award – Society of Daughters of the American Revolution (2005)
- Community Activist Award – India Tribune
- President’s Award for Outstanding Volunteer Service – Indo-American Democratic Organization
- Outstanding Graduate Award – Northern Illinois University
- Exemplary Human Services Award – Intercollegiate Asian American Students Association of Chicago
- Community Service Award – Federation of Indian Associations
- Dr. Rajendra Prasad Award for Social Services – Bihar Cultural Association
- Political Activism Leadership Award – Asian Broadcasting Network
- Asian Hall of Fame Award – Asian American community
- Indian Community Service Award – iCAN
Personal Life
Moon Khan lives in Lombard, Illinois, a suburb of Chicago.
He is married to Shanu Khan and is the father of Shaan Khan.
Gallery
Contact Information
Address 562 S. Stewart Ave. Lombard, IL 60148 United States
Mobile 630-479-8729
Email moonkhan2020@gmail.com
Website www.moonkhan.com