NEWARK, NJ - U.S. Senator Robert Menendez (D-NJ), Chairman of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, issued the below statement regarding the celebration of Diwali:
“I extend my warmest wishes to those in New Jersey, and around the world who are celebrating Diwali, the festival of lights. Diwali symbolizes the triumph of good over evil, and is a time when millions of people pray for an auspicious and successful year to come. As we face growing challenges across the globe, I join the millions of observers in lighting a diya – or a lamp – and praying for the triumph of light over darkness. Diwali also reminds us to contemplate and reflect on the plight of those who are less fortunate, and I hope we can all take a moment to pause and reflect on those who continue to face oppression around the world, such as those denied the right to worship freely. My thoughts and prayers are with you, and I hope that this holiday inspires us all to recognize our common humanity and reach for values that transcend borders, nationalities, and cultures. To all my friends celebrating today, I wish you all and all your loved ones a Happy Diwali and Saal Mubarak.”
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