Indian-American Congressman Raja Krishnamoorthi has introduced a resolution in the House of Representatives recognizing the religious and historical significance of the Festival of Lights, Diwali, to millions of Indian-Americans. Supported by five other lawmakers, the resolution was introduced on October 19, PTI reported.
“I’m proud to introduce this resolution recognizing Diwali’s religious and historical significance for millions of Indian Americans,” Krishnamoorthi said. For Hindus, Sikhs, and Jains in the United States and across the world, Diwali represents a time for giving thanks, and celebrating the triumph of light over darkness as well as good over evil, he said. Noting that this year many members of the Congress will celebrate Diwali in the US Capitol for the first time, the resolution expresses its “deepest respect” for the Indian-Americans and the Indian diaspora across the world on the occasion.
Co-sponsored by Pramila Jayapal, Ro Khanna, Tulsi Gabbard, Ami Bera and Joe Crowley, the resolution has been sent to the House Foreign Relations Committee for necessary action. While Bera, Jayapal, and Khanna are Indian-American lawmakers, Gabbard is the first Hindu lawmaker in Congress and Crowley is a top Democratic Congressman.
The resolution acknowledges and supports the relationship of collaboration and respect between the US and India, and recognizes and appreciates the religious diversity in both the countries and throughout the world.
In a separate statement, Republican National Committee chairwoman Ronna McDaniel and co-chair Bob Paduchik wished the “Hindu, Jain and Sikh friends a happy festival of lights.”
Earlier, top US lawmakers, including Indian-American Congressmen, have greeted Hindus, Sikhs, Buddhists and Jains on the occasion of Diwali and said that the Festival of Lights sends an important message of setting aside their differences and working together as one.
Also read: Indian-origin lawmakers in US celebrate Diwali; greet Hindus, Sikhs, Buddhists
