NRI PULSE STAFF REPORT
Washington, D.C, October 29, 2024: The White House was adorned in traditional Diwali lights yesterday evening as President Joe Biden hosted one of the largest Diwali receptions in the building’s history, welcoming South Asian American leaders, community members, and government officials to celebrate the festival of lights. President Biden’s speech highlighted the importance of unity, democracy, and the impact of the South Asian community on American life.
The ceremony began with remarks from U.S. Surgeon General Dr. Vivek H. Murthy, who expressed gratitude to President Joe Biden and First Lady Jill Biden for hosting the event. Dr. Murthy remarked on the festival’s message of community, stating, “I’m incredibly grateful to President Biden and Dr. Biden for hosting our celebration, because they understand what really matters in Diwali—the people we love and the community we build together.”
President Biden opened with gratitude for his guests and shared light-hearted moments with young guests, Representative Ro Khanna’s children, who joined him on stage briefly to the delight of the audience. Recalling the journey of South Asian Americans, Biden honored their contributions to the nation, noting their deep history in the United States, with the first immigrants arriving as early as the 1700s.
“We’re the only nation not based on race, religion, or geography,” Biden said. “America is based on an idea… that all men and women are created equal.” He emphasized the shared values of the American spirit, from courage and service to dreams of a brighter future, which resonate with Diwali’s themes of knowledge over ignorance and unity over division.
A particularly moving part of the evening was a message from astronaut Suni Williams, who shared her Diwali greetings from the International Space Station. Although technical limitations prevented a live interaction, her recorded words underscored the event’s theme of bridging worlds and aspirations.
As President Biden lit the ceremonial diya, a traditional lamp symbolizing the triumph of light, he affirmed his commitment to an inclusive administration that reflects America’s diversity. “I’m proud that I kept my commitment to have an administration that looks like America… including a record number of South Asian Americans,” Biden noted, emphasizing their essential role at all levels of government.
In reflecting on recent history, President Biden recalled hosting the first Diwali reception at the vice president’s residence in 2016 during a time of heightened hostility toward immigrants. “Now, as president, I’ve been honored to host the biggest Diwali receptions ever at the White House,” he said, reminding the audience of the enduring strength found in America’s diversity.
The celebration concluded with a call to action for all Americans to contribute to the “American experiment,” urging citizens to be a source of light and hope. The event underscored the value of inclusivity and reaffirmed the White House’s commitment to celebrating the rich cultural heritage that defines America.P
Cover photo: Indian-American youth activist Shrusti Amula introduces President Joe Biden at a Diwali reception, Monday, October 28, 2024, in the East Room of the White House. (Official White House Photo by Adam Schultz)
