WASHINGTON, DC, USA—Dr. Rajwant Singh, Chairman of the Washington based Sikh Council on Religion and Education, welcomed President Obama’s message on Diwali with special reference to Oak Creek tragedy.
While Diwali is being celebrated in the White House today, President Obama in a statement released from the White House said, “Many who observe this holiday will light the Diya, or lamp, which symbolizes the triumph of light over darkness and knowledge over ignorance. As that lamp is lit, we should all recommit ourselves to bring light to any place still facing darkness. Earlier this year, we were reminded of the evil that exists in the world when a gunman walked into the Sikh gurdwara in Oak Creek, Wisconsin and opened fire. In the wake of that horrible tragedy, we saw the resilience of a community that drew strength from their faith and a sense of solidarity with their neighbors, Sikh and non-Sikh alike. We also saw compassion and love, in the heroic actions of the first responders and the outpouring of support from people across the country. Out of a day of sadness, we were reminded that the beauty of America remains our diversity, and our right to religious freedom.”
Dr. Singh said, “This inspirational message reflects President Obama’s compassionate heart and his commitment to create a harmonious society in America where all are respected and each faith is honored. Recognizing Diwali, which is sacred to almost all faiths originating from Indian subcontinent, sends a message that America provides an opportunity for each faith to flourish and all faiths can truly enjoy the religious freedom. This message is especially relevant in light of recent horrific tragedies including the Oak Creek Sikh Gurdwara shooting. “
“Diwali, which is popularly known as Bandi Chhor Diwas among Sikhs, reminds us that we must stand for the unfortunate ones and should work towards bringing justice in society. The light of love has to reflect in our actions guided by our respective faiths.”
Dr. Rajwant Singh added, “We are confident America will continue towards ‘perfect union’ as envisaged by the US Constitution under the able leadership of President Obama for another four years. We pray for him and his family as he leads a difficult road of bringing political leadership together to face the challenge of financial solvency of this country. We also pray for the victims of Hurricane Sandy and all the volunteers and officials who are trying their best to bring comfort to those who have lost so much in this natural disaster. Sikh community is thankful to President Obama for his prompt actions to support the community in wake of Wisconsin Gurdwara tragedy and looking forward to assisting him in his agenda to lead this nation in the right direction.
THE WHITE HOUSE
Office of the Press Secretary
__________________________________________________________________________________________
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
November 13, 2012
Statement by the President on the Observance of Diwali
Today, here at home and across the globe, Hindus, Jains, Sikhs and some Buddhists will celebrate the holiday of Diwali – the festival of lights. Diwali is a time for gathering with family and friends, often marked with good food and dancing. It is also a time for prayer and reflection about those less fortunate. It is a testament to the compassion of these communities that so many of them have helped those that have been devastated by Hurricane Sandy.
Many who observe this holiday will light the Diya, or lamp, which symbolizes the triumph of light over darkness and knowledge over ignorance. As that lamp is lit, we should all recommit ourselves to bring light to any place still facing darkness. Earlier this year, we were reminded of the evil that exists in the world when a gunman walked into the Sikhgurdwara in Oak Creek, Wisconsin and opened fire. In the wake of that horrible tragedy, we saw the resilience of a community that drew strength from their faith and a sense of solidarity with their neighbors, Sikh and non-Sikh alike. We also saw compassion and love, in the heroic actions of the first responders and the outpouring of support from people across the country. Out of a day of sadness, we were reminded that the beauty of America remains our diversity, and our right to religious freedom.
To those celebrating Diwali, I wish you, your families and loved ones Happy Diwali and Saal Mubarak.
