On Monday, American First Lady Dr. Jill Biden and President Joe Biden will celebrate Diwali at the White House by inviting Indian-Americans from around the country for the occasion. They are hosting the event as it marks their last Diwali as President and First Lady.
For years, the Bidens have made Diwali extra special. As he has in years past, President Biden will light a traditional lamp in the Blue Room before he begins his remarks. According to the White House, the ceremony marks the start of the festivities with the large Indian American community.
There will be plenty of lights, color, music, and dancing around. There will also be some traditional performances depicting the rich culture of India. In addition, a video message from Sunita Williams, a NASA astronaut currently on the International Space Station, will also be introduced by the President.
Events regarding Diwali first started in the White House during the presidency of George W. Bush back in 2003. Since then, every other president has carried on that tradition. President Barack Obama famously lit a diya in the Oval Office, while then-Vice President Biden hosted a reception in 2016. In 2017, President Donald Trump was sure to continue the Diwali tradition with a diya-lighting with his daughter Ivanka, and Indian American members of his administration. That 2018 saw the interruption of the critical midterm elections. The first disturbance in 15 continuous years of formal White House Diwali celebrations.
This Diwali, as Election Day is fast approaching, South Asian Americans see a unique opportunity to “drive out darkness” by voting in and ushering in a brighter future. Ajay Bhutoria says he’s working to turn out South Asian, Asian American, and AAPI voters nationwide this year. This year, Diwali has fallen days before November 5, 2024, which is turning out to be a symbolic moment for Indian Americans to make their voices heard.
Bhutoria said, “This Diwali, let’s drive out the darkness: vote for Harris-Walz.” He said Diwali symbolizes the triumph of light over darkness and knowledge over ignorance. As people light diyas in their homes, they must lighten up democracy by voting. He feels that coming together can help dispel division. And hate to support candidates who stand in for an inclusive America.
With Asian Americans now the fastest-growing racial group in the country, celebrations of Diwali underline changing demographics.
ANI