US lawmakers celebrate Diwali; greet Hindus, Sikhs, Buddhists

Top US lawmakers, including Indian-Americans, 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.
Diwali is a time of spiritual renewal and is celebrated all across the country and around the world by billions of people, said Congresswoman Tulsi Gabbard, the first Hindu lawmaker in the US Congress.
Diwali is observed not only as a fun holiday, but as a time to celebrate the victory of light over darkness, truth over untruth and righteousness over wrong.

"As we gather for the beautiful Festival of Lights this year, we reflect on the opportunity each of us has to overcome our differences with one another and find ways to be of service to others," Gabbard said.
This meaningful holiday celebrates the pursuit of light over darkness, knowledge over ignorance, and good over evil, said Congressman Joe Crowley.
"It is a time for reflection and renewal, and a time for peace. As people from many backgrounds come together to celebrate Diwali, let us all be reminded of the important message of setting aside our differences and working together as one," he said.

This year's Diwali is a wonderful chance to celebrate our community's contributions in business, technology, health care, arts, academics and much more, said Indian-American Congressman Ami Bera.

"The Indian-American community represents the best of the American dream and I ask everyone to raise a light in celebration. Over the next decade, I look forward to building Washington as another hub for members of our community," he said.
Congresswoman Judy Chu said this joyous occasion marks the victory of good over evil, knowledge over ignorance, and light over darkness.
"During this time of reflection and renewal, let us also celebrate the rich cultural diversity that strengthens the fabric of our great nation. Saal Mubarak to all," he said.

Diwali, the festival of lights, is a celebration of the triumph of good over evil, light over darkness, and knowledge over ignorance, said Indian-American Congressman Ro Khanna.
"I am proud of my Hindu faith and wish a happy Diwali to all who are celebrating in California, and across the country. It is important that regardless of religion we all take time to reflect on the light in our lives and what we can do to make that light shine brighter," he said.
Indian-American Congressman Raja Krishnamoorthi said for Hindus, Sikhs, and Jains here in the US 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.

"This holiday is a time for families to gather, light lamps in the home, and pray for good health and peace. To all those who celebrate, I wish them a safe and happy Diwali," Krishnamoorthi said.
Noting that the Festival of Lights marks a long tradition of victory through perseverance the triumph of light over darkness, good over evil and knowledge over ignorance, Congresswoman Barbara Lee said that in these challenging times, Diwali offers all an opportunity to celebrate peace with families and communities.