Over 300 members of the Indian American community from across the United States joined members of Congress at the Dirksen Senate Office Building to celebrate Diwali on Capitol Hill by lighting the traditional diyas.
Indian American Congressmen Ro Khanna (CA-17), Shri Thanedar (MI-13) and Ohio State Senator Niraj Antani were among the attendees at the Nov 15 celebration organized by BAPS Swaminarayan Sanstha with several other organizations, according to a BAPS release.
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Other lawmakers present included Sen Cynthia Lummis (Wyoming), Rep Deborah Ross (NC-02), Rep Scott Perry (PA-10), Rep Brad Sherman (CA-32),(CA-17), Rep Anna Paulina Luna (FL-13), Rep Matt Cartwright (PA-08), Rep Jim Costa (CA-21), Rep. Jen Kiggans (VA-02), Rep Dan Meuser (PA-09), Rep Brian K. Fitzpatrick (PA-01), Rep Darin LaHood (IL-16), Rep Donald Norcross (NJ-01), Rep Steny Hoyer (MD-5) and Rep Maxwell Frost (FL-10),
Also present were Roberts Peckar, Member of the Board of Governors of the American Jewish Committee, and Jag Mohan, Minister of Community and personnel at the Embassy of India.
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Elected representatives emphasized the vital role of diversity in their constituencies, according to the release. They underscored the profound impact of sharing cultural traditions and celebrations, like Diwali, in promoting a deeper understanding, fortifying community strength, and building connections among diverse populations.
Khanna joined in the diya lighting and shared his thoughts on Diwali, “The principles of Diwali – the triumph of good over evil, the triumph of righteousness, the importance of doing your duty – are good reminders to people of all faiths.”
“Celebration of this festival on Capitol Hill is not only a testament to the diversity and unity within our communities but it is also an opportunity to showcase the strength that comes from cultural preservation and understanding of the various communities,” said Jag Mohan.
“May the festival of lights inspire us to lift our communities with hope instead of despair and stand up for what’s right. That’s what Diwali is all about,” remarked Rep. Jim Costa.
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The event was a unifying opportunity to celebrate Diwali in the nation’s capital, where attendees had the chance to reflect on the universal messages of Diwali, while also increasing awareness about the Indian American community and interfaith harmony.
Other organizations involved included the Hindu American Foundation (HAF), the Asian American Hotel Owners Association (AAHOA), Shrimad Rajchandra Mission Dharampur, Federation of Jain Associations in North America (JAINA), the American Jewish Committee (AJC), the US Indian Community Foundation, the US India Security Council Inc, and the Indian American Relations Council convened on Capitol Hill.