WASHINGTON: Despite their busy campaigning schedules, US lawmakers took to social media to wish people on Diwali with many of them attending community celebrations in their constituencies.
For the Indian-Americans this was a special year of celebrations as the US Postal Service issued the first ever Diwali postage stamp – a more than a decade old pending demand for them.
“Diwali is a beautiful reminder of the ultimate victory of light over darkness. Saal Mubarak to all those celebrating!” tweeted Senator Tim Kaine, who is also the Democratic vice presidential nominee.
“Diwali’s message of compassion is one that resonates with all Texans. Wishing you a joyous and prosperous new year,” said Senator John Cornyn, who is Co-Chair of the Senate India Caucus.
US lawmakers over the past few years had become accustomed to celebrating Diwali at the US Capitol.
“Happy Diwali! Proud to have helped make the Diwali Forever stamp a reality,” said Senator Mark Warner, who is the Democratic Co-Chair of the Senate India Caucus.
“Happy Diwali! Wishing brightness and joy to all those who celebrate the festival of lights,” tweeted Senate Jack Reed.
Senator and a former Republican presidential nominee Ted Cruz said the central theme of Diwali reinforces the “shared hope and common outlook” the US and India enjoy as “friends” and allies.
“As we mark Diwali, may the United States-India alliance be a shining light of truth and peace,” Cruz said in a statement.
“This holiday celebrates the triumph of light and goodness over darkness and evil, as well as who we are as a community and all that we have accomplished,” said Congressman Ami Bera, Co-Chair of the Congressional Caucus on India and Indian- Americans.
Beri said he was proud to have hosted the largest ever Diwali celebration on Capitol Hill with more than 1,000 attendees, including 30 members of Congress last year.
“Happy Diwali! I send my very best wishes to all those celebrating this joyous festival, both here in the US and around the globe,” said Congressman Joe Crowley.
He said Diwali is a time for “reflection and renewal” and a time for peace.
Crowley had helped organise the first-ever Congressional Diwali celebration in 2013 when serving as co-chair of the Congressional Caucus on India and Indian-Americans.
“Happy Diwali to all those celebrating. Wishing you a joyous holiday!” Senator Bob Casey tweeted.
“Wishing everyone a Happy Diwali and a year full of happiness and joy,” tweeted Congressman Pete Sessions.
“Happy Diwali to everyone celebrating the Festival of Lights,” tweeted Congressman Sean Patrick Maloney. (AGENCIES)
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