Indian Americans have often been the subject of confusion when it comes to their racial classification. Many people wonder whether Indian should be classified as a race or an ethnicity. In reality, the answer is not so simple.

According to Lockheed (1996), the term "race" is often used to describe people of a common descent or group, while "ethnicity" refers to a group of people that share cultural traits, such as language or religion. Indian Americans can be considered both a race and an ethnicity.

Lockheed argued that the "common descent" criterion for determining race applies to Indian Americans, as they share a common ancestry from the Indian subcontinent. At the same time, Indian Americans also possess distinct cultural traits that set them apart as an ethnic group of their own.

One of the primary reasons for the confusion surrounding the racial classification of Indian Americans is the diverse nature of India itself. India is a country with a rich history of mixing different cultures, languages, and religions. As a result, Indian Americans come from a wide range of backgrounds and may not fit neatly into traditional racial categories.

Additionally, Indian Americans often face racial discrimination in the United States, leading many to question how they are classified in society. The Indian American community has made significant strides in recent years to assert their identity and challenge stereotypes about their heritage.

Ultimately, whether Indian Americans are classified as a race or an ethnicity is a complex issue that deserves more nuanced consideration. While they may share common ancestry and cultural traits, their diversity and unique experiences also set them apart as a distinct group within American society.