President Joe Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris led the United States in commemorating Diwali on Thursday with festive spirit and messages of hope, unity, and resilience. From temples to landmarks across the nation, iconic buildings were illuminated in honor of the Festival of Lights.
In a post on X, President Biden shared his vision of Diwali as a gathering of light, celebrating knowledge, unity, freedom, and democracy. “This Diwali, may we show the power in the gathering of light,” he said, underscoring his call for a united America.
Earlier in the week, the White House held a special Diwali celebration, inviting around 600 Indian-American leaders, marking the largest Diwali event hosted there. Vice President Harris, who joined the celebration virtually from her campaign trail, also expressed her sentiments on X, saying, “Tonight, we join over a billion people around the world celebrating light over darkness, and good over evil.”
Diwali is more than just a festival; it’s a powerful reminder of the values we all cherish: patience, togetherness, kindness, and unity.
To all who celebrate, all over the world, and with us here in the U.S., I wish you a Diwali filled with joy, peace, and prosperity.
— Secretary Antony Blinken (@SecBlinken) November 1, 2024
A National Celebration Honoring Cultural Diversity
Secretary of State Antony Blinken added to the celebration, emphasizing Diwali’s message of light and the importance of bringing positivity into communities. He noted the deep-rooted impact of diversity in the U.S. and acknowledged the significance of religious freedom for all. In his remarks, he acknowledged the unity Diwali represents and how it serves as a reminder of the potential to bring warmth and light into our communities.
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! pic.twitter.com/VhgCkjeieg
— Vice President Kamala Harris (@VP) October 31, 2024
Minnesota Governor Joins Diwali Festivities
In Pennsylvania, Minnesota Governor Tim Walz joined local Diwali celebrations at the Bharatiya Temple in Montgomery County. Participating in a diya lighting ceremony, Walz expressed his appreciation for the opportunity to share in the cultural experience and the sense of togetherness within the community. “It’s a privilege for me to be with you on this special day. You can feel the love and community in the room,” he remarked.
Walz, who is running as Harris’ vice-presidential running mate, also highlighted her commitment to creating pathways for South Asian American communities. He touched on plans to improve access to small business opportunities and lower costs, which he said were essential to fostering success in the U.S. He was joined by Montgomery County Commissioner Neil Makhija, the first Asian American County Commissioner in Pennsylvania.
Global Greetings and Community Unity
Google CEO Sundar Pichai added his Diwali greetings on social media, wishing everyone a bright and joyful holiday. His message highlighted the shared nature of Diwali celebrations across cultures, industries, and communities, emphasizing the universal theme of light and togetherness that Diwali represents.
This year’s Diwali festivities across the United States underscored the power of cultural celebrations to unite communities, reinforce diversity, and illuminate the shared values of hope, resilience, and community strength that Diwali represents.
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