On October 28, 2024, President Joe Biden hosted a grand Diwali celebration at the White House, with over 600 distinguished Indian Americans. This celebration highlighted Diwali’s growing recognition and importance in the United States. The event saw the participation of various notable figures, including Congress members, officials, and business leaders from the Indian American community.
Who Couldn’t Attend the Diwali Celebration Event and Why?
Vice President Kamala Harris and First Lady Dr Jill Biden were not present at the Diwali celebrations at the president’s house because of their obligations related to the ongoing presidential election campaign. Furthermore, the US President further recalled the time when he and First Lady Jill Biden hosted the first Diwali celebration at the Vice President’s residence in 2016.
How Has President Biden Celebrated the Contributions of South Asians?
In his address, President Biden emphasized the contributions of the South Asian American community to American life. He took pride in hosting the largest Diwali celebrations in White House history and reaffirmed his dedication to having an administration that mirrors the diversity of the nation.
“As President, I’ve been honored to host the biggest Diwali receptions ever at the White House. To me, it means a great deal.”
President Joe Biden
What Highlights Made the Diwali Celebration at the White House Special?
The celebration included traditional performances, colorful decorations, and greetings from prominent figures. Retired NASA astronaut Sunita Willams shared a video message from the International Space Station, and Indian American youth activist Shrusti Amula introduced the President. President Biden lit the ceremonial Diya in the blue room of the White House, symbolizing the festival’s spirit of light and hope.
How Does Biden’s Diwali Celebration Reflect Its Growing Importance?
President Biden’s Diwali celebration at the White House highlights the festival’s growing significance in American society. He spoke about how Diwali, from being celebrated in the shadows to now being openly and proudly celebrated at the White House.
“On this day in America, we think about that journey of light. Early in our nation’s founding, A generation before diya, in the shadow of suspicion, now in a time Diwali is celebrated openly and proudly here in the White House.”
President Joe Biden
How Does Biden Emphasize Diversity and Inclusion in America?
This event highlights the importance of diversity and inclusion in the United States. President Biden’s comments stressed the importance of acknowledging and honoring the contributions of all communities.
“In a country as diverse as ours, we debate, we dissent as we forge a path forward through compromise and consensus. But the key is we never lose sight of how we got here and why.”
President Joe Biden
He further extended, “We’re a nation with a heart, a soul that draws from old and new.”
How Does Biden’s Diwali Celebration Reflect His Commitment to Diversity?
President Biden’s Diwali celebration at the White House highlights his administration’s dedication to diversity and inclusion. By hosting such a significant event, the President is sending a clear message that every cultural tradition is appreciated and honored in the United States. This commitment is also evident in the varied makeup of his administration, which seeks to represent the rich tapestry of American society.
What Can Be Expected in the Future Administrations to Embrace Diwali in the U.S.?
As Diwali becomes more recognized and valued in the United States, upcoming administrations will probably continue to celebrate this festival with similar enthusiasm. Diwali celebration events at the White House began with President George W Bush in 2003 and President Barack Obama lighting a Diya in the Oval Office, as well as then-Vice President Biden hosting a reception in 2016.
President Donald Trump continued the Diwali tradition in 2017 by lighting a Diya alongside his daughter Ivanka and Indian American members of his administration. Additionally, the crucial midterm elections disrupted the 15-year-long tradition of formal Diwali celebrations at the White House in 2018.
In conclusion, President Biden’s Diwali celebration at the White House was a significant occasion that showcased the festival’s importance and the contributions of the South Asian American community. This event reflected the administration’s commitment to diversity and inclusion, marking a proud moment for Diwali celebrations in the United States.
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Mallika Sadhu is a journalist committed to revealing the raw, unfiltered truth. Mallika's work is grounded in a dedication to transparency and integrity, aiming to present clear and impactful stories that matter. Through comprehensive reporting and honest storytelling, she strives to contribute to provide narratives that genuinely inform and engage. When not dwelling in the world of journalism, she is immersed in the colors of her canvas and pages of her journal.
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