Washington, D.C. — Today, Assistant Speaker of the U.S. House of Representatives Katherine Clark (MA-5) released the following statement alongside Members of the Congressional Asian Pacific American Caucus (CAPAC) in celebration of Diwali, the “Festival of Lights,” celebrated by Hindus, Jains, Sikhs, and Buddhists across the world:
Rep. Katherine Clark (MA-05):
“Happy Diwali to all who celebrate! This holiday reminds us of light and love's infinite power and beauty. As we usher in new beginnings and recognize the triumph of good over evil and knowledge over darkness, I hope this year’s Festival of Lights brings you peace, comfort, and prosperity.”
CAPAC Chair Rep. Judy Chu (CA-27):
“Happy Diwali to all who celebrate! Diwali honors the triumph of light over darkness, knowledge over ignorance, and good over evil. This bright occasion is a reminder that in the face of despair, hope will always prevail. And may this festival of lights be an opportunity for everyone to reflect on our strength as a community, and to embrace the diversity that surrounds us. On behalf of the Congressional Asian Pacific American Caucus, I hope your Diwali is joyous, peaceful, and full of light and prosperity.”
CAPAC First Vice-Chair Rep. Grace Meng (NY-06):
“Happy Diwali to all those celebrating in New York City, across the country, and around the world! This holiday is a joyous occasion to rejoice in the triumph of light over darkness and good over evil. No matter the challenges we may face today and tomorrow, let us find hope in the ways we continue to overcome and persevere. As we reflect on the things that bring us goodness and light, we celebrate the strength that comes from the diversity and unity of our communities. I wish you all a prosperous and joyful Festival of Lights!”
CAPAC Whip Rep. Ted Lieu (CA-33):
“Wishing everyone a Happy Diwali! At this year’s Festival of Lights, I am sending well wishes to all those who celebrate this joyous time, reminding us that light will always triumph over darkness. Let us commemorate new beginnings and the great blessings of family, tradition, and prosperity. As we recognize the celebrations, may it inspire us all to strengthen the connections across our diverse communities. Have a safe and happy festival!”
Rep. Ami Bera, M.D. (CA-07):
“Happy Diwali to all those celebrating in Sacramento, across the country, and around the world! I’m proud to join my Congressional Asian Pacific American Caucus colleagues in commemorating this holiday as we reflect on the past year and celebrate the triumph of light over darkness and good over evil. I wish everyone a safe, joyous, and prosperous Diwali celebration.”
Rep. Al Green (TX-09):
“During times of great turmoil, it would be judicious to consider the spirit of Diwali. Diwali is a wonderful opportunity to celebrate the triumph of dharma – goodness, duty, and righteousness – over the spirits of evil, darkness, and fear. At this time of societal unrest, may you be showered with all things harmonious and prosperous, as well as much success in all your endeavors. I am proud to join my CAPAC colleagues in wishing a safe and happy Diwali to everyone observing.”
Rep. Pramila Jayapal (WA-07):
“Diwali is a blessed time that reminds us that freedom, goodness, and duty must always triumph. As we celebrate the Festival of Lights, let us recommit to bringing hope, laughter, and light to our work, our communities, and the people around us. Now more than ever, we must stand up against xenophobia, hate, Islamophobia, and racism, and reiterate that they have no place in our country. I wish everyone who celebrates a joyful Diwali, and as the first Indian American woman ever elected to the House of Representatives, I promise to continue lifting up the voices and perspectives of my community in Congress.”
Rep. Ro Khanna (CA-17):
“Wishing everyone across CA-17 a happy Diwali! Even in difficult times, Diwali is such an important moment to step back and celebrate everything good in this life. Light will always triumph over darkness.”
Rep. Andy Kim (NJ-03):
“Happy Diwali to everyone celebrating in New Jersey and across the nation. Diwali reminds us to shine a light in darkness and honors the triumph of good. As friends and family gather to celebrate, I wish you a happy and prosperous holiday.”
Rep. Raja Krishnamoorthi (IL-08):
“I’d like to wish a Happy Diwali to all the Hindus, Sikhs, Jains and others celebrating this joyous time of thanks and reflection on the triumph of light over darkness, and of good over evil. May this light shine within us as a source of healing and renewal, and remind us all of what we can be at our best as a people and a nation.”
Rep. Suzanne Bonamici (OR-01):
“Happy Diwali! This Festival of Lights commemorates the triumph of light over darkness and knowledge over ignorance. I join my CAPAC colleagues in wishing all who celebrate in NW Oregon and across our country a joyous time.”
Rep. Debbie Dingell (MI-12):
“I wish a happy, prosperous, and safe Diwali to all those celebrating in Michigan and around the world. This festive holiday provides an opportunity for us to come together to celebrate the victory of light over darkness, good over evil, and knowledge over ignorance, and recognize that there is far more that unites us than divides us. May we always bring light wherever we go.”