Donald Trump: Diwali in US is important reminder of religious liberty

United States President Donald Trump extended Diwali wishes on October 25 in a statement released by the White House. He wished a “blessed and happy celebration” "to those observing the Festival of Lights". The statement further added, “We pray that this year's observance brings love, joy, and eternal peace”.

“As Diwali commences, Melania and I wish those observing the Festival of Lights a blessed and happy celebration. For many Hindus, Jains, Sikhs, and Buddhists in the United States and around the globe, this sacred period is an opportunity to commemorate the victory of light over darkness, good over evil, and knowledge over ignorance. Throughout this holy time, members of these faiths engage in prayer, light diyas, and lanterns, and partake in traditional feasts and other festivities with friends and family." 

President Trump also said that the observance of Diwali throughout America is an important reminder of the significance of one of the country's core tenets - religious liberty. He added that his administration will continue to defend the rights enshrined in the US constitution that enable people of all faiths to worship according to their beliefs and conscience. 

"The observance of Diwali throughout America is an important reminder of the significance of one of our Nation's core tenets - religious liberty."

Trump celebrates Diwali in the Oval Office

President Trump also celebrated Diwali on October 24 in the Oval Office with a small group of Indian-Americans where they marked the festival with the ceremonial lighting of a diya. This Diwali marks his third Diwali celebrations at the White House, a tradition that began with his predecessor Barack Obama. 

The US President celebrated his first Diwali at the White House back in 2017 in the presence of a select group of Indian-American community leaders and members of his administration. Last year, he also invited the Indian Ambassador to the US, Navtej Singh Sarna, to celebrate Diwali in the Roosevelt room. 

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London Mayor celebrates Diwali

The Mayor of London also attended Diwali celebrations at City Hall on October 24 and asked not to allow anybody to divide the communities of various faiths. Sadiq Khan took to Twitter to share the images of celebration saying it is a special time for Hindu, Sikh and Jain Londoners. “Its message of light triumphing over darkness brings people of all backgrounds and faiths together,” Khan wrote. 

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