New York : A resolution recognising the significance of Diwali has been moved in the US House of Representatives. "As millions of Hindus, Sikhs, and Jains have migrated to the United States over the years, it is important their cultural traditions be respected by their fellow countrymen," Congressman Addison Wilson said in a statement after introducing the resolution.
The resolution, which also requests the US President to issue a proclamation recognising Diwali, "represents Congress’ commitment to Americans of South Asian heritage and recognises their contribution to the United States," he said. The Hindu American Foundation (HAF) has welcomed the introduction of the resolution.
"Celebrants of Diwali believe that the rows of lamps symbolise the light within the individual that rids the soul of the darkness of ignorance and is a celebration of the victory of good over evil," the resolution says.
In a statement released to the Hindu American Foundation, Congressman McDermott said, "America is a great melting pot of cultures, but one of the strengths of our nation is respecting and preserving the traditions unique to our ethnicities, and that’s why I want Congress to officially recognise the festival of Diwali."
Asserting that recognising Diwali will enable understanding of the religious and cultural background of Hindus, Sikhs and Jains, McDermott added, "Understanding one another is essential to living in peace, here at home, and around the world."
http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/NEWS/World/The_United_States/Resolution_on_Diwali_moved_in_US_House/articleshow/1837222.cms
