[Congressional Record Volume 144, Number 27 (Friday, March 13, 1998)]
[Senate]
[Page S1960]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                     TRIBUTE TO THE HINDU NEW YEAR

 Mr. LAUTENBERG. Mr. President, I rise to congratulate the New 
Jersey Arya Samaj Mandir as it celebrates the Hindu New Year. The New 
Jersey Arya Samaj Mandir was incorporated to serve the religious, 
educational, and cultural needs of the Arya and Hindu immigrant 
population in New Jersey, demonstrating my state's rich and diverse 
heritage.
  My colleagues may know that the Hindu New Year, called Holi, occurs 
at the advent of spring and is a time when Hindus focus on the joys of 
the new season and the passing of the cold, harsh winter. The day also 
marks a time to emphasize reconciliation, forgiveness, unity, and 
tolerance. I am glad to be able to contribute to this celebration as 
New Jersey's Arya and Hindu population gathers with family and friends 
to mark the coming of spring and another New Year.
  Hindus in our country have contributed a great deal to America's 
heritage. The strength of our country is built upon the melding of its 
many languages, customs, and traditions, including those of the Hindu 
community. Our diversity is a strength. It is important that we 
celebrate the contribution that Hindu Americans have made to American 
society.

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