IV 111th CONGRESS 1st Session H. RES. 798 IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES October 6, 2009 Mr. McDermott (for himself, Mr. Royce, Mr. Crowley, Mr. Pallone, Mr. Wilson of South Carolina, Ms. Ros-Lehtinen, and Mr. Ackerman) submitted the following resolution; which was referred to the Committee on Oversight and Government Reform RESOLUTION Conveying the best wishes of the House of Representatives to those celebrating Diwali.

Whereas Diwali is celebrated by many Americans and people around the world, especially in South Asia; Whereas Diwali is also known as Deepavali to many celebrants around the world; Whereas Diwali is a significant holiday for Hindus, Sikhs, Jains, Buddhists, and others; Whereas Diwali falls on the last day of the last month of the lunar calendar and the festival is celebrated for 5 days; Whereas Diwali is commonly known as the Festival of Lights and is observed with diyas, or oil lamps, lit in clay vessels; and Whereas for its celebrants, Diwali is of spiritual significance and the lights of Diwali symbolize the inner light that overcomes the darkness of ignorance: Now, therefore, be it

That the House of Representatives— (1)recognizes the historical and religious significance of Diwali; (2)celebrates the rich cultural and religious diversity of the people of the United States and the freedom of religion guaranteed to all Americans; and (3)conveys best wishes to its fellow Americans and to people around the world celebrating Diwali.