UNITED STATES, October 28, 2024 (New India Abroad): President Joe Biden celebrated Diwali at the White House, delivering a powerful message on resilience, unity, and the shared values that bind the nation. This year’s event marked not just a celebration of the Festival of Lights but also a tribute to the growing South Asian American community and its invaluable contributions to American society. Diwali, traditionally symbolizing light over darkness, served as a backdrop for Biden’s message about the importance of solidarity, especially during what he described as an “inflection point” in the nation’s journey. The 2024 White House Diwali celebration was a vibrant affair, featuring cultural performances, speeches by dignitaries, and a special message from astronaut Sunita Williams. President Joe Biden lit the traditional Diwali lamp, symbolizing the triumph of light over darkness. The event was attended by government officials, Indian-American community leaders, and celebrities, reflecting the growing influence of the Indian-American community in the United States.

In his speech, Biden said, “This is not my house; this is your house. Today we face an inflection point. Every once in a few generations we are reminded to not take the Idea of America for granted. American Democracy has never been easy. In a country as diverse as ours, we debate, we dissent, but the key is, we never lose sight of how we got here and why.” Biden also reflected on his first Diwali celebration at the Vice President’s residence in 2016 with First Lady Jill Biden, a moment that has grown into an annual tradition for their family. The White House has celebrated Diwali for over two decades, beginning with President George W. Bush in 2003.
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