The US House of Representatives has for the first time passed a resolution recognising the "religious and historical significance" of Diwali.
The House Resolution 747, passed by an overwhelming vote of 358 to 0 (with 66 members abstaining), "is the first time the US Congress has ever passed a resolution in honour of Diwali", said Joe Wilson, the co-chair of the Congressional Caucus on India and Indian-Americans.
"I am pleased that this legislation recognising the religious and historical significance of the festival of Diwali, has been brought to the floor today for consideration," the Republican from South Carolina, who was among the sponsors of the bill, said in a statement.
"Celebrated by the people of India, the Indian diaspora and the nearly 2 million Hindus, Sikhs, Buddhists, and Jains in the US, Diwali is a five-day festival held in the fall that celebrates the values of kinship, knowledge, and goodness," Wilson said.
The festival signifies the triumph of good over evil and light over darkness. This is commonly represented by individuals lighting oil lamps and placing them outside their homes.
"My resolution acknowledges the international, religious, and historical importance of the festival of Diwali as well as the religious diversity in India, the United States, and throughout the world. It shows our support for the strong and growing partnership and dialogue in international efforts between the United States and India," he said.
Lastly, it recognises the importance of Indian-Americans -- a strong and vibrant immigrant community, he added.
Wilson said as a lifelong supporter and admirer of the Indian-American community, he was grateful for the opportunity to show his appreciation.
"My father served in India during World War II, and he told me how entrepreneurial and competent the people of India are. I call on my colleagues here in the House of Representatives to do the same for the citizens of India, a strategic and economic ally," the lawmaker said.
The House Resolution on Diwali acknowledged and supported "the new relationship of collaboration and dialogue in international efforts between the United States and India" and expressed "its deepest respect to Indian-Americans and the Indian diaspora throughout the world on this significant occasion."
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