Blinken Highlights Diwali’s Powerful Message of Care and Community

Secretary of State Antony Blinken emphasized the valuable lesson Diwali offers about the importance of caring for one another. Speaking at the State Department’s celebration of the festival, he stated, “At its core, Diwali embodies the idea that light can push back against darkness and that compassion and curiosity can triumph over ignorance. Each of us has an obligation to care for the other.”

Blinken noted that this message is particularly relevant in today’s world, saying, “I can’t think of a more powerful lesson to take to heart right now.”

He also acknowledged the contributions of South Asian culture to the United States, highlighting figures like novelist Jhumpa Lahiri and fashion designer Prabal Gurung, as well as leaders from Indian descent, such as Vice President Kamala Harris and World Bank President Ajay Banga.

Reflecting on the coincidence of Diwali falling on October 31 this year, which is also celebrated as Halloween in the U.S., Blinken shared a light-hearted moment, mentioning, “I understand that some people have even been throwing ‘Diwalloween’ parties.”

Rich Verma, the Deputy Secretary of State, who previously served as U.S. Ambassador to India, reminisced about the annual Diwali celebrations organized by the U.S. mission in India. He described how each celebration was unique, marked by beautiful diyas, rangolis, and marigold decorations, but most importantly, by a profound sense of community and togetherness.

Verma added, “And it is in this spirit that we also think about communities celebrating Diwali in many other countries, including Nepal, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, Singapore, Malaysia, Mauritius, Fiji, Guyana, and Trinidad and Tobago.”