"Honoured": Joe Biden Hosts White House's Biggest-Ever Diwali Celebration

The White House on Monday hosted the biggest Diwali reception ever which also saw the presence of several Indian Americans from the Joe Biden administration.

The celebration comes days after New York City Mayor Eric Adams announced that the public schools will be closed on Diwali every year starting this year to celebrate the festival with full zest and inclusivity.

Adams made the announcement stating that the decision to declare a public school holiday on Diwali was long overdue. He also mentioned that this decision will help send their message of inclusivity across the region and will encourage children to learn about the festival of lights.

Diwali At The White House

Wishing a happy Diwali to everyone celebrating the Festival of Lights in the United States, India, and around the world, Biden thanked the Asian American community in the US for making the celebration a joyous part of American culture. "We are honoured to host you. This is the first Diwali reception of this scale in the White House ever to be held. We have more Asian Americans than ever before in history and we want to thank you for making the Diwali celebration a joyous part of American culture," US President Biden said during a reception to celebrate Diwali at the White House.

"As we host the official White House Diwali reception, we are honoured to light the diya surrounded by members of the most diverse Administration in American history--led by Vice President Kamala Harris, the first Black American and South Asian American to become Vice President."

Biden also thanked for the optimism, courage, and empathy demonstrated by the South Asian community all across America.

"Together, South Asian Americans reflect the soul of who we are as a nation, whether helping us emerge stronger from this pandemic, building an economy that works for everyone, or serving and protecting our communities and our country."

As the world celebrates this gathering of light, he said, "as this community has experienced too often--that there is always darkness lurking. American history has been a constant struggle between the American ideal that we are all created equal and the harsh reality that we have never fully lived up to it. By marking the victory of light over darkness, Diwali is a reminder that each of us has the power to bring light to the world, whether here in America or around the world."

Moreover, US vice-president Kamala Harris also delivered remarks from the White House on the occasion of Diwali celebrations. She said, "White House is the people's house and together our president and first lady have made this place where every American can celebrate their honour and tradition."

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