WASHINGTON – This week we mark Diwali, a five day festival celebrated by millions of American Hindus, Sikhs, Buddhists and Jains and many more around the world. The celebration gets its name from the clay lamps, or deepas, that Indians light outside their homes to symbolize the inner light that protects them from spiritual darkness. It is the most widely celebrated festival in the Indian diaspora and a time of rejoicing for those who celebrate it.
 
President Barack Obama issued a statement marking the occasion, known as the festival of lights. In 2009 he was the first American president to light the Diya, or oil lamp, which symbolizes the victory of good over evil. 
 
DNC Chair Rep. Debbie Wasserman Schultz issued the following statement:
 
“We are proud to count Democrats among the millions of Americans who celebrated Diwali, the festival of lights, over the last few days. The celebration of knowledge over ignorance and good over evil is an opportunity for us to pause for prayer and contemplation, to reflect on our obligations to help our fellow human beings, and in particular the less fortunate. Those are values that we hold dear as a party, and that are at the heart of the policies for which we stand.  On behalf of the Democratic National Committee, Saal Mubarak!”