US Leaders Join Diwali Celebrations Across Six States
· World · Hindustan Times, Times of India
Elected officials across the United States, including governors, senators, and mayors, joined Indian-American communities to celebrate Diwali across six states and more than 20 cities. The Consulate General of India in Seattle reported widespread participation from local leadership, with multiple cities issuing official proclamations recognizing the holiday. Washington Governor Bob Ferguson marked the state's first official celebration at the capitol building in Olympia on November 4, declaring November 8, 2026, as Diwali, the Festival of Lights Day. Nebraska Governor Jim Pillen similarly hosted festivities at the governor's mansion in Lincoln, praising the Indian community's vital contributions to the state's cultural identity. State Senator Manka Dhingra and other local leaders also attended the statewide events.
Why it matters
The widespread official recognition of Diwali highlights the growing cultural and political influence of the Indian-American community across the United States.
Read the original report — Hindustan Times
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