Obama, became the first US president who lit a lamp to celebrate the Diwali.

Washington, October 16 2009
Akbar Alvi

On Wednesday, US President Barack Obama became the first US president who lit a lamp to celebrate the Diwali. He took part in a White House ceremony for the festival of lights, lighting a "diya" oil lamp inside the executive mansion and bowing respectfully before a priest.

In the two minute long message, he explained what the festival of lights means to those who celebrate it, whether they are Hindus, Jains or Sikhs. Obama, known for commemorating holidays from all religions, seizes the occasion to talk about those who are "less fortunate," who "do not enjoy the same rights to speak or worship freely." He says that "our hearts are with them."

The president also expresses hope that "at this sacred time of year," people from all religions and cultures can join together to "make a habit of empathy and reach out to those most in need."

Obama ends by saying that "Michelle and I wish you a happy Diwali."

Obama used the occasion to sign an executive order setting up a commission, comprised of 20 members from a wide range of government agencies, to conduct a two-year study of how to assist Asian Americans.

The executive order saluted the success of many Asian Americans but pointed out that some communities.

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President Obama's Diwali Message

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