In an effort to make Diwali a federal holiday in the US, lawmaker Grace Meng on Friday introduced a bill on the same in the Congress.&nbsp;"Today, I was proud to announce the introduction of the #Diwali Day Act, my bill that would make Diwali a federal holiday. Thank you to all my government colleagues and the many advocates who joined me to express their support," Meng, the First Vice Chair of the Congressional Asian Pacific American Caucus tweeted on Saturday.

The bill cited as Diwali Day Act would designate Diwali as the 12th official federal holiday in the US.

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After introducing the bill in the House of Representatives, Meng, in a virtual conference, said: "Diwali is one of the most important days of the year for billions of people across the globe and for countless families and communities in Queens, New York, and the United States."

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“Diwali celebrations are a wonderful time here in Queens, and each year it is easy to see just how important this day is to so many people. America’s strength is derived from the diverse experiences, cultures and communities that make up this nation. My Diwali Day Act is one step toward educating all Americans on the importance of this day, and celebrating the full face of American diversity. I look forward to shepherding this bill through Congress," she added.&nbsp;

Meng has also made efforts to make Diwali a school holiday in New York City, her hometown. The US Representative continues to advocate for state and local recognition of Diwali, Lunar New Year, and Eid.

<h2>Pennsylvania declares Diwali as official holiday</h2>

In April, the US state of Pennsylvania declared Diwali as a state holiday. The state House passed a bill recognising the Hindu festival as an official holiday.

“The Senate voted unanimously to recognize Diwali as an official holiday! To all Pennsylvanians who celebrate this festival of light and connection: you are seen, you are welcome, you matter. Thank you, @rothman_greg, for the opportunity to join you in introducing this bill," Senator Nikil Saval tweeted.

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Two senators from Pennsylvania, Greg Rothman and Nikil Saval, introduced the bill to recognise Diwali as a state holiday in February of this year. More than 600,000 Asian Americans call Pennsylvania home, with Indian Americans constituting the biggest subgroup, according to India American Impact. &nbsp;

Every year, the state's almost 200,000 Indian Americans celebrate Diwali in splendour.&nbsp;

<h2>Significant festival in India&nbsp;</h2>

Diwali, also known as Deepavali, is a significant festival in India and is celebrated by millions of people around the world. It is known as the "Festival of Lights" and symbolises the victory of light over darkness and good over evil. In the United States, Diwali is celebrated by the Indian diaspora and people from various cultural backgrounds. 
 
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In an effort to make Diwali a federal holiday in the US, lawmaker Grace Meng on Friday introduced a bill on the same in the Congress. "Today, I was proud to announce the introduction of the #Diwali Day Act, my bill that would make Diwali a federal holiday.

In an effort to make Diwali a federal holiday in the US, lawmaker Grace Meng on Friday introduced a bill on the same in the Congress. "Today, I was proud to announce the introduction of the #Diwali Day Act, my bill that would make Diwali a federal holiday. Thank you to all my government colleagues and the many advocates who joined me to express their support," Meng, the First Vice Chair of the Congressional Asian Pacific American Caucus tweeted on Saturday. The bill cited as Diwali Day Act would designate Diwali as the 12th official federal holiday in the US. Also Read | Night train connecting Brussels-Berlin starts operations. Push for less polluting alternatives to air travel After introducing the bill in the House of Representatives, Meng, in a virtual conference, said: "Diwali is one of the most important days of the year for billions of people across the globe and for countless families and communities in Queens, New York, and the United States." Also Read | Aid worker arrives in Belgium after prisoner swap with Iranian diplomat “Diwali celebrations are a wonderful time here in Queens, and each year it is easy to see just how important this day is to so many people. America’s strength is derived from the diverse experiences, cultures and communities that make up this nation. My Diwali Day Act is one step toward educating all Americans on the importance of this day, and celebrating the full face of American diversity. I look forward to shepherding this bill through Congress," she added. Meng has also made efforts to make Diwali a school holiday in New York City, her hometown. The US Representative continues to advocate for state and local recognition of Diwali, Lunar New Year, and Eid. Pennsylvania declares Diwali as official holiday In April, the US state of Pennsylvania declared Diwali as a state holiday. The state House passed a bill recognising the Hindu festival as an official holiday. “The Senate voted unanimously to recognize Diwali as an official holiday! To all Pennsylvanians who celebrate this festival of light and connection: you are seen, you are welcome, you matter. Thank you, @rothman_greg, for the opportunity to join you in introducing this bill," Senator Nikil Saval tweeted. Watch | Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi to inaugurate new parliament on May 28 × Two senators from Pennsylvania, Greg Rothman and Nikil Saval, introduced the bill to recognise Diwali as a state holiday in February of this year. More than 600,000 Asian Americans call Pennsylvania home, with Indian Americans constituting the biggest subgroup, according to India American Impact. Every year, the state's almost 200,000 Indian Americans celebrate Diwali in splendour. Significant festival in India Diwali, also known as Deepavali, is a significant festival in India and is celebrated by millions of people around the world. It is known as the "Festival of Lights" and symbolises the victory of light over darkness and good over evil. In the United States, Diwali is celebrated by the Indian diaspora and people from various cultural backgrounds. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. ×

US lawmaker Grace Meng introduces bill to declare Hindu festival of Diwali a federal holiday

United States Vice President Kamala Harris celebrated Diwali with her husband and Second Gentleman Doug Emhoff at their residence in Washington on Friday.&nbsp;

Community leaders who attended the celebration said that Harris stated that the Hindu festival, Diwali, is a universal concept that transcends cultures. She opened her official residence, the Naval Observatory, to a large number of Indian Americans to celebrate the festival of lights.&nbsp;

Reports said that the mansion was decorated with lights and 'diyas' (earthen lamps) and the guests were served a variety of authentic Indian delicacies from 'pani puri' to traditional sweets.&nbsp;

IN PICS |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/diwali-special-not-just-india-these-countries-also-celebrate-the-festival-425785">Diwali special: Not just India, these countries also celebrate the festival</a>&nbsp;

Harris told the gathering that the festival of Diwali is a universal concept that transcends cultures. She further added that it is about being inspired by the relevance of light over darkness.&nbsp;

As mentioned by news agencies, the guests were shocked when they got sparklers (commonly known as phuljhadi) were presented to them; they lit them with Harris and the Second Gentleman while exchanging well wishes.&nbsp;

A group of young dancers performed on popular Bollywood hits like "Jai Ho" and "Om Shanti".&nbsp;

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.<a href="https://twitter.com/VP?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@VP</a> and <a href="https://twitter.com/SecondGentleman?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@SecondGentleman</a> during a Diwali Celebration at the VP’s Residence this evening. 
 
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As quoted by India-based news agency PTI, Harris said: "It is about culture. It is about an age-old concept that transcends cultures and communities. It is about a point of reflection and a moment of reflection to consider the duality of life in terms of the balance between darkness and light. And to celebrate the light. In that way, to think about what our role is and what our role should be in elevating us out of the darkness, guided by the light,"&nbsp;

She recollected her days of celebrating as a child with her grandparents in Chennai.&nbsp;

She said, "In the last few years, we have experienced a lot that has been about powerful forces trying to divide, trying to focus on what they would suggest are dissimilarities when we all know that the vast majority of us have so much more in common than what separates us."&nbsp;

She added, "There are moments in our country right now where there are those who fight against democratic principles. The principles upon which our nation was founded. Principles like freedom, liberty,"&nbsp;

"And in these moments where we all have a keen awareness of the unfairness and the injustice of it all, let us be guided by our knowledge that it is not new, that there will be moments like this, but that we have the power to make a difference and to elevate any moment in a way that we feel and can see the future and the possibility and all that is bright that the world allows when we have the ability to believe in it," she said.&nbsp;

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United States Vice President Kamala Harris celebrated Diwali with her husband and Second Gentleman Doug Emhoff at their residence in Washington on Friday. Community leaders who attended the celebration said that Harris stated that the Hindu festival, Diwali, is a universal concept that transcends cultures.

United States Vice President Kamala Harris celebrated Diwali with her husband and Second Gentleman Doug Emhoff at their residence in Washington on Friday. Community leaders who attended the celebration said that Harris stated that the Hindu festival, Diwali, is a universal concept that transcends cultures. She opened her official residence, the Naval Observatory, to a large number of Indian Americans to celebrate the festival of lights. Reports said that the mansion was decorated with lights and 'diyas' (earthen lamps) and the guests were served a variety of authentic Indian delicacies from 'pani puri' to traditional sweets. IN PICS | Diwali special: Not just India, these countries also celebrate the festival Harris told the gathering that the festival of Diwali is a universal concept that transcends cultures. She further added that it is about being inspired by the relevance of light over darkness. As mentioned by news agencies, the guests were shocked when they got sparklers (commonly known as phuljhadi) were presented to them; they lit them with Harris and the Second Gentleman while exchanging well wishes. A group of young dancers performed on popular Bollywood hits like "Jai Ho" and "Om Shanti". .@VP and @SecondGentleman during a Diwali Celebration at the VP’s Residence this evening. 🎥: neilmakhija on Instagram. pic.twitter.com/w8wq7tu1PB — best of kamala harris (@archivekamala) October 22, 2022 × As quoted by India-based news agency PTI, Harris said: "It is about culture. It is about an age-old concept that transcends cultures and communities. It is about a point of reflection and a moment of reflection to consider the duality of life in terms of the balance between darkness and light. And to celebrate the light. In that way, to think about what our role is and what our role should be in elevating us out of the darkness, guided by the light," She recollected her days of celebrating as a child with her grandparents in Chennai. She said, "In the last few years, we have experienced a lot that has been about powerful forces trying to divide, trying to focus on what they would suggest are dissimilarities when we all know that the vast majority of us have so much more in common than what separates us." She added, "There are moments in our country right now where there are those who fight against democratic principles. The principles upon which our nation was founded. Principles like freedom, liberty," "And in these moments where we all have a keen awareness of the unfairness and the injustice of it all, let us be guided by our knowledge that it is not new, that there will be moments like this, but that we have the power to make a difference and to elevate any moment in a way that we feel and can see the future and the possibility and all that is bright that the world allows when we have the ability to believe in it," she said. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

WATCH | Kamala Harris celebrates Diwali, says it is 'universal concept' that transcends cultures

New York city's iconic World Trade Center has been lit up to showcase a pretty spectacular digital mural to celebrate the festival of lights, Deepavali.

New York: Spectacular digital mural on World Trade center podium for Diwali

With Diwali approaching, US Congresswoman Carolyn Maloney is planning to propose a bill in Congress that would make Diwali an official holiday in the United States.

If the bill is passed, Diwali will be commemorated in government institutions with considerable populations, honouring the cultural legacy of millions of Indian Americans who celebrate the festival in the United States. 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/diwali-muhurat-trading-2021-check-date-timing-and-other-details-425816">Also read | Diwali Muhurat trading 2021: Check date, timing, and other details</a>

Members of the India Caucus, including Congressman Ro Khanna, Congressman Raja Krishnamoorthi, and other activists, will join the Democrat Congressman from New York on Wednesday to launch her proposal on Capitol Hill.&nbsp;

Sanjeev Joshipura, Executive Director, Indiaspora, will also accompany the congresswoman, who has long been a supporter of the Indian diaspora, to represent Indian American community members.

Congressman Maloney has previously spearheaded efforts in Congress to urge the US Postal Service to approve and produce a commemorative stamp honouring Diwali, which has been in circulation since 2016.&nbsp;

Maloney pushed tirelessly for this cause, believing that "a relatively tiny action would have enormous significance for millions of people."

US senators have previously stated during a Diwali celebration event that Hindu-American culture had improved the United States and the world.

A huge number of parliamentarians, representatives of the government, and prominent community leaders from around the country usually attend the event.

The celebration was limited this year because to COVID-19 and limits on the number of people at an event, but it was broadcast live.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

With Diwali approaching, US Congresswoman Carolyn Maloney is planning to propose a bill in Congress that would make Diwali an official holiday in the United States.

With Diwali approaching, US Congresswoman Carolyn Maloney is planning to propose a bill in Congress that would make Diwali an official holiday in the United States. If the bill is passed, Diwali will be commemorated in government institutions with considerable populations, honouring the cultural legacy of millions of Indian Americans who celebrate the festival in the United States. Also read | Diwali Muhurat trading 2021: Check date, timing, and other details Members of the India Caucus, including Congressman Ro Khanna, Congressman Raja Krishnamoorthi, and other activists, will join the Democrat Congressman from New York on Wednesday to launch her proposal on Capitol Hill. Sanjeev Joshipura, Executive Director, Indiaspora, will also accompany the congresswoman, who has long been a supporter of the Indian diaspora, to represent Indian American community members. Congressman Maloney has previously spearheaded efforts in Congress to urge the US Postal Service to approve and produce a commemorative stamp honouring Diwali, which has been in circulation since 2016. Maloney pushed tirelessly for this cause, believing that "a relatively tiny action would have enormous significance for millions of people." US senators have previously stated during a Diwali celebration event that Hindu-American culture had improved the United States and the world. A huge number of parliamentarians, representatives of the government, and prominent community leaders from around the country usually attend the event. The celebration was limited this year because to COVID-19 and limits on the number of people at an event, but it was broadcast live. (With inputs from agencies)

US lawmaker to introduce Bill in Congress to make Diwali a federal holiday

United States President Donald Trump would celebrate Diwali in his Oval Office next Tuesday, the White House has said.

"The President will be celebrating Diwali with a ceremonial lighting of the diya (lamp) in the Oval Office next Tuesday," Deputy Assistant to the president Raj Shah said in a statement on Thursday.

A day earlier Trump had greeted people celebrating the festival of lights the world over and said it is a special opportunity to reflect on the bond of friendship between India and the United States.

Trump said First Lady Melania joins him in sending their best wishes for a very happy and memorable Diwali.

He also recognised the "extraordinary" contributions of Indian-Americans in the development of the United States.

"We recognise the extraordinary contributions of Indian-Americans to the strength and success of our nation. Their achievements in business and industry, public service, education, scientific research, and other fields continue to represent the very best of our American virtues and the spirit of the Diwali season," said Trump, who had celebrated Diwali last year by lighting the ceremonial lamp in the Oval Office.

Asserting that Diwali is a joyous and spiritual time marked by Hindus, Sikhs, Jains, and Buddhists, Trump said lighting of lamps on the occasion symbolises the true meaning of Diwali, which is triumph of light over darkness and good over evil.

Republican National Committee (RNC) chairperson Ronna McDaniel also greeted people celebrating Diwali.

"We wish you and your family and friends a meaningful celebration of the victory of light over darkness. We at the RNC will continue to honour the traditions of diverse communities that enrich and strengthen our country," she said.

Earlier this week, US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo had said nearly a billion people from around the world will light the lamp "as a reminder that good ultimately overcomes evil, understanding over ignorance, and kindness over animosity".

"As those celebrating decorate their homes with vibrant lights, I would also like to recognise the achievements of our friends in the United States observing Diwali who make important contributions to our country on a daily basis," he had said.

Top American lawmakers also joined Trump in extending Diwali greetings.

"Wishing a very happy Diwali to everyone around the world celebrating the Festival of Lights!" said Senator Mark Warner, the Co-Chair of the Senate India Caucus.

"These lights are physical, including lanterns, candles, and fireworks, but for those who light the flames, they hold a deeper meaning. Diwali celebrates awareness of one's inner light and light's triumph over darkness. It celebrates goodness over evil and hope over despair," Senator John Cornyn, the Co-Chair of the Senate India Caucus, said.

Indian American lawmaker Raja Krishnamoorthi said, "Happy Diwali to those celebrating the Festival of Lights today, which commemorates the victory of good over evil and illumination of knowledge."

Congressman John Sarbanes said the festival of lights serves as an important reminder for all that love and light will always prevail over hate and darkness, and that knowledge and reason will invariably overcome intolerance and ignorance.

Indian American Congresswoman Pramila Jayapal said, "Happy Diwali to the millions around the world celebrating the Festival of Lights! What a beautiful reminder that light prevails over darkness and that goodness will guide us toward a better future."

Congressman Derek Kilmer said, "Diwali is a celebration of our shared aspirations for the world: The triumph of light over darkness. As millions come together to celebrate this holiday, let's join them in striving to embrace the values of Diwali in our politics &amp; our communities."

Tulsi Gabbard, the first Hindu elected to the House of Representatives, in a video message said Diwali is such a special time of year where people all over the world are coming together to light their lamps in honour the return of Lord Ram to His kingdom after many years in exile, and celebrate the victory of light over darkness, good over evil, and knowledge over ignorance.

United States President Donald Trump would celebrate Diwali in his Oval Office next Tuesday, the White House has said. "The President will be celebrating Diwali with a ceremonial lighting of the diya (lamp) in the Oval Office next Tuesday," Deputy Assistant to the president Raj Shah said in a statement on Thursday.

United States President Donald Trump would celebrate Diwali in his Oval Office next Tuesday, the White House has said. "The President will be celebrating Diwali with a ceremonial lighting of the diya (lamp) in the Oval Office next Tuesday," Deputy Assistant to the president Raj Shah said in a statement on Thursday. A day earlier Trump had greeted people celebrating the festival of lights the world over and said it is a special opportunity to reflect on the bond of friendship between India and the United States. Trump said First Lady Melania joins him in sending their best wishes for a very happy and memorable Diwali. He also recognised the "extraordinary" contributions of Indian-Americans in the development of the United States. "We recognise the extraordinary contributions of Indian-Americans to the strength and success of our nation. Their achievements in business and industry, public service, education, scientific research, and other fields continue to represent the very best of our American virtues and the spirit of the Diwali season," said Trump, who had celebrated Diwali last year by lighting the ceremonial lamp in the Oval Office. Asserting that Diwali is a joyous and spiritual time marked by Hindus, Sikhs, Jains, and Buddhists, Trump said lighting of lamps on the occasion symbolises the true meaning of Diwali, which is triumph of light over darkness and good over evil. Republican National Committee (RNC) chairperson Ronna McDaniel also greeted people celebrating Diwali. "We wish you and your family and friends a meaningful celebration of the victory of light over darkness. We at the RNC will continue to honour the traditions of diverse communities that enrich and strengthen our country," she said. Earlier this week, US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo had said nearly a billion people from around the world will light the lamp "as a reminder that good ultimately overcomes evil, understanding over ignorance, and kindness over animosity". "As those celebrating decorate their homes with vibrant lights, I would also like to recognise the achievements of our friends in the United States observing Diwali who make important contributions to our country on a daily basis," he had said. Top American lawmakers also joined Trump in extending Diwali greetings. "Wishing a very happy Diwali to everyone around the world celebrating the Festival of Lights!" said Senator Mark Warner, the Co-Chair of the Senate India Caucus. "These lights are physical, including lanterns, candles, and fireworks, but for those who light the flames, they hold a deeper meaning. Diwali celebrates awareness of one's inner light and light's triumph over darkness. It celebrates goodness over evil and hope over despair," Senator John Cornyn, the Co-Chair of the Senate India Caucus, said. Indian American lawmaker Raja Krishnamoorthi said, "Happy Diwali to those celebrating the Festival of Lights today, which commemorates the victory of good over evil and illumination of knowledge." Congressman John Sarbanes said the festival of lights serves as an important reminder for all that love and light will always prevail over hate and darkness, and that knowledge and reason will invariably overcome intolerance and ignorance. Indian American Congresswoman Pramila Jayapal said, "Happy Diwali to the millions around the world celebrating the Festival of Lights! What a beautiful reminder that light prevails over darkness and that goodness will guide us toward a better future." Congressman Derek Kilmer said, "Diwali is a celebration of our shared aspirations for the world: The triumph of light over darkness. As millions come together to celebrate this holiday, let's join them in striving to embrace the values of Diwali in our politics & our communities." Tulsi Gabbard, the first Hindu elected to the House of Representatives, in a video message said Diwali is such a special time of year where people all over the world are coming together to light their lamps in honour the return of Lord Ram to His kingdom after many years in exile, and celebrate the victory of light over darkness, good over evil, and knowledge over ignorance.

Trump to celebrate Diwali in Oval Office next Tuesday: White House

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US lawmaker Grace Meng introduces bill to declare Hindu festival of Diwali a federal holiday

WATCH | Kamala Harris celebrates Diwali, says it is 'universal concept' that transcends cultures

New York: Spectacular digital mural on World Trade center podium for Diwali

US lawmaker to introduce Bill in Congress to make Diwali a federal holiday

Trump to celebrate Diwali in Oval Office next Tuesday: White House