Legislators to introduce bill in US Congress to make Diwali a federal holiday
With Diwali approaching, US Congressman Carolyn Maloney is set to introduce a bill in the US Congress that aims to establish Diwali as a federal holiday in the United States. If the bill is approved, the holiday would be celebrated in federal institutions, where large populations celebrate Diwali and honor the cultural heritage of the millions of Indian Americans who celebrate the holiday in the US.
On Wednesday, the New York Democrat Congressman will be joined by members of the India Caucus, including Congressman Ro Khanna, Congressman Raja Krishnamurthy and other advocates, who will present their legislation in Hill.
Representing members of the Indian American community, Sanjeev Joshipura, Executive Director, Indiaspora, will also join the Congress member who has been a longtime supporter of the Indian diaspora.
Congressman Maloney has worked successfully with advocates across the country in the past to urge the US Postal Service in Congress to approve and issue a commemorative stamp in honor of Diwali, which has been in circulation since 2016.
Maloney fought tirelessly for this cause because she realized that “a relatively small action meant a lot to millions.”
Earlier at a Diwali celebration, US lawmakers said Hindu-American culture had enriched America and the world. The event is usually attended by a large number of lawmakers, members of the administration and eminent community leaders from across the country. Due to COVID-19 and restrictions on the number of attendees at an event, the festival was banned this year but was broadcast live.
Diwali will be celebrated on 4th November this year.
(with ANI inputs)
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