WHEREAS, Diwali, a festival of historic, religious, and cultural significance is celebrated annually by millions of Hindus, Sikhs, Jains, and Buddhists throughout the United States, and across the globe; and
WHEREAS, the diversity of the community, Hindus, Sikhs, Jains, and Buddhists, comprise a vital part of North Carolina’s rich ethnic and social fabric, and whose languages, cultures, and religious beliefs have enriched our communities; and
WHEREAS, Diwali, an abbreviation of the Sanskrit “Deepavali,” is a festival of lights during which celebrants light small oil lamps, place them around their home, and pray for knowledge, peace, compassion, and universal well-being; and
WHEREAS, the rows of lamps symbolize the light of knowledge and truth triumphing over negative qualities such as ignorance and greed; in other words, Diwali celebrates the victory of good over evil; and
WHEREAS, Diwali is celebrated by Hindus as a day of thanksgiving for the homecoming of Lord Rama and the beginning of the new year; and
WHEREAS, for Sikhs, Diwali is celebrated as the day that revered teacher Guru Hargobind was released from captivity by the Mughal Emperor Jahangir; and
WHEREAS, for Jains, Diwali marks the anniversary of the attainment of moksha, or liberation, by Mahavira at the end of his life in 527 B.C.; and
WHEREAS, for Buddhists, Diwali is commemorated as the day the great Emperor Ashoka embraced Buddhism as his faith; and
WHEREAS, on behalf of the state of North Carolina, it is with immense pride and honor that I recognize the contributions of all Indian Americans who are active in all aspects of our economy, history, and culture;
NOW, THEREFORE, I, ROY COOPER, Governor of the State of North Carolina, do hereby proclaim November 4, 2021, as “DIWALI AWARENESS DAY” in North Carolina, and commend its observance to all citizens.