Top US Lawmakers Send Diwali Greetings To Indian American Community

Friday, 24 October 2014, 23:15 IST
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WASHINGTON: Cutting across party lines, top U.S. lawmakers have greeted the influential Indian American community on Diwali and wished them an auspicious and successful year ahead.

The festival of lights would be celebrated at the Capitol Hill on November 19 when the lawmakers who are currently busy in campaigning for the mid-term elections on November 4 return to the city.

"Diwali's message of tolerance and compassion is one that all Americans can appreciate. As our friends in the Indian community here in Texas and around the world come together to mark the Festival of Lights, Sandy and I send our sincere wishes for a joyous and prosperous new year," said senator John Cornyn, co-chair of the Senate India Caucus.

"This meaningful festival is about the pursuit of light over darkness, good over evil. It is a time for reflection and renewal, and it is a time for peace," said Congressman Joe Crowley, vice-chair of the House Democratic Caucus.

"As people from many backgrounds come together to celebrate Diwali, let us all be reminded of the important message of compassion and community. Happy Diwali!" he said.

Last year, Crowley and his Congressional colleagues, prominent Indian-American leaders, celebrated Diwali for the first time.

Extending his warmest wishes to those celebrating Diwali, Senator Robert Menendez said Diwali symbolises the triumph of good over evil, and is a time when millions of people pray for an auspicious and successful year to come.

"To the millions who are celebrating around the globe, I wish you a happy Diwali. During this festival, Hindus, Sikhs, and Jains recognise the victory of good over evil, light over darkness," said Congressman Ami Bera, who is the only Indian American currently serving in Congress.

"As we light our lamps on the first day of Diwali, it is a time for us to reflect on the true meaning of Diwali, in our own lives. This holiday is a joyous occasion for many of us as we reflect on the year behind us and renew our spirits for the year to come," said Congresswoman Tulsi Gabbard, the first Hindu elected to the U.S. Congress.

"As we view images from around the world of lit Diyas, or oil lamps, illuminating the night sky during this year's joyous Festival of Lights, let us reflect on the meaning behind this symbolic tradition--namely, the triumph of light over dark, good over evil, and knowledge over ignorance," said Congressman Michael Honda.


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Congressman Gerry Connolly extended his warmest wishes for a joyful Diwali to Hindus, Sikhs and Jains in Virginia and around the world.

Congressman Scott Peters said he is proud to join communities across San Diego and the world as they celebrate Diwali

 


Source: PTI