President Biden’s Message of Unity
President Joe Biden marked the occasion by sharing his reflections on the power of light and knowledge. In a post on X, he stated, “This Diwali, may we show the power in the gathering of light. The light of knowledge, of unity, of truth. The light for freedom, for democracy, for an America where anything is possible.” Earlier in the week, President Biden hosted a historic Diwali celebration at the White House, welcoming around 600 Indian Americans to partake in the festivities. The White House also shared a warm message: “Happy Diwali from the Biden-Harris Administration to everyone celebrating the Festival of Lights!”
Vice President Harris Celebrates with the Community
Vice President Kamala Harris joined in the celebrations by emphasizing the festival’s message of overcoming darkness. She posted, “Tonight, we join more than 1 billion people across America and around the world lighting diyas and celebrating the fight for good over evil, knowledge over ignorance, and light over darkness. Happy Diwali to everyone celebrating the Festival of Lights!” At a Diwali event in Pennsylvania, Minnesota Governor Tim Walz celebrated the South Asian community’s contributions and highlighted the importance of inclusivity in America.
Former President Trump’s Diwali Greetings Amidst Controversy
In a contrasting message, former President Donald Trump, now a Republican presidential candidate, offered his Diwali greetings while condemning violence against minorities in Bangladesh. Describing the situation as “barbaric” and a sign of “total chaos,” Trump criticized President Biden and Vice President Harris for what he sees as their neglect of Hindus. He vowed to protect Hindu Americans from what he termed the “anti-religion agenda” of the radical left and concluded with a festive wish for a happy Diwali, hoping the festival would lead to the “Victory of Good over Evil.”
Government and Organizational Support for Diwali
The U.S. Department of State joined in the celebrations, tweeting that “Diwali represents hope and renewal.” Secretary of State Antony Blinken added that Diwali serves as a powerful reminder of cherished values such as patience, togetherness, kindness, and unity. Additionally, Gita Gopinath, the First Deputy Managing Director of the International Monetary Fund (IMF), shared a heartfelt video of the White House military band performing the prayer “Om Jai Jagdeesh Hare,” noting, “Wonderful to hear the White House military band play Om Jai Jagdeesh Hare for Diwali. Happy Diwali!” Google CEO Sundar Pichai also offered his greetings, wishing everyone a “bright and joyful Diwali filled with warmth and light!”
As leaders across the United States come together to celebrate this auspicious occasion, the universal themes of peace, unity, and the triumph of light over darkness resonate deeply within the South Asian community and beyond, reflecting the spirit of Diwali celebrated around the globe.
