President Joe Biden celebrated Diwali at the White House, delivering a powerful message on resilience, unity, and the shared values that bind the nation. This year’s event marked not just a celebration of the Festival of Lights but also a tribute to the growing South Asian American community and its invaluable contributions to American society. Diwali, traditionally symbolizing light over darkness, served as a backdrop for Biden’s message about the importance of solidarity, especially during what he described as an “inflection point” in the nation’s journey.

The 2024 White House Diwali celebration was a vibrant affair, featuring cultural performances, speeches by dignitaries, and a special message from astronaut Sunita Williams. President Joe Biden lit the traditional Diwali lamp, symbolizing the triumph of light over darkness. The event was attended by government officials, Indian-American community leaders, and celebrities, reflecting the growing influence of the Indian-American community in the United States.

Happening Now: President Biden delivers remarks at a White House celebration of Diwali. https://t.co/gTKjvtzCEi

— The White House (@WhiteHouse) October 28, 2024

In his speech, Biden said, "This is not my house; this is your house. Today we face an inflection point. Every once in a few generations we are reminded to not take the Idea of America for granted. American Democracy has never been easy. In a country as diverse as ours, we debate, we dissent, but the key is, we never lose sight of how we got here and why."

Reflecting on the journey of American democracy, Biden highlighted that the United States is grounded in inclusivity and evolution, values that resonate deeply with Diwali’s themes of resilience and renewal.

An Invitation to Unity and Democracy’s Strength

In Biden’s view, American democracy thrives on diversity, debate, and the spirit of unity despite differences. His message aligned closely with Diwali’s theme of light overcoming darkness, offering a vision of hope amid challenges. Addressing a diverse audience, Biden reminded them of the country’s shared historical journey, urging Americans to embrace democracy’s resilience and the importance of engaging in open discourse while remembering their shared goals.

“American Democracy has never been easy,” he said. “In a country as diverse as ours, we debate, we dissent...but the key is, we never lose sight of how we got here and why.” This perspective, he argued, is essential for unity in a rapidly diversifying country.

The Bidens' Commitment to Inclusivity

Biden also reflected on his first Diwali celebration at the Vice President’s residence in 2016 with First Lady Jill Biden, a moment that has grown into an annual tradition for their family. Since then, the Bidens have consistently promoted inclusivity, particularly through the representation of South Asian Americans within the administration. Biden specifically acknowledged Vice President Kamala Harris and Surgeon General Vivek Murthy as leaders who reflect America’s diverse cultural fabric.

Biden concluded the Diwali celebration with a message of hope and resilience, inviting Americans from all backgrounds to embrace Diwali’s message of light over darkness and shared renewal. He extended his gratitude to the South Asian community for their contributions and reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to fostering a nation where every community’s heritage is celebrated.

A Legacy of Diwali Celebrations at the White House

The White House has celebrated Diwali for over two decades, beginning with President George W. Bush in 2003. Since then, Presidents Barack Obama and Donald Trump continued the tradition, with Obama famously lighting a diya in the Oval Office and Trump hosting Diwali celebrations alongside his daughter Ivanka and other Indian American members of his administration. Biden’s event upheld this legacy of inclusivity, featuring ceremonial diya lighting, traditional Indian performances, and decorations capturing the festival’s spirit of light and unity.

Biden also paid tribute to the South Asian American community, which he described as “the fastest-growing and most engaged community” in the United States, highlighting its significant contributions to technology, education, and healthcare. “The South Asian American community has enriched every part of American life,” he noted, acknowledging the community’s role in shaping modern America.

Indian-American astronaut Sunita Williams sent a special Diwali message from the International Space Station (ISS) to those celebrating the festival at the White House and around the world. She shared her unique experience of celebrating Diwali from 260 miles above Earth and expressed gratitude to Biden for celebrating Diwali with the Indian American community.

Vice President Kamala Harris, celebrated Diwali separately at her official residence earlier, accompanied by family, friends, and influential South Asian American figures.