[Congressional Record Volume 156, Number 38 (Tuesday, March 16, 2010)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E383]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                    CELEBRATING THE FESTIVAL OF HOLI

                                 ______
                                 

                           HON. STEVE ISRAEL

                              of new york

                    in the house of representatives

                        Tuesday, March 16, 2010

  Mr. ISRAEL. Madam Speaker, I rise today to join the people of India 
and the Indian Diaspora as they celebrate Holi, the Festival of Colors.
  Holi is a time when communities come together after a long winter to 
welcome the spring harvest. It is a visually stunning event with 
thousands of people tossing colored powders in the air and using dyed 
water in an atmosphere where culture, camaraderie and oneness are 
celebrated. In the evening, community bonfires are lit to signify 
triumph over divisiveness and negativity. It is one of the largest 
festivals in the world, with over one billion Hindus, Sikhs, Jains and 
Buddhists participating throughout India, Nepal, the United States and 
many other nations.
  As a member of the Congressional Caucus on India and Indian 
Americans, I would like to commend the Hindu American Foundation for 
educating Americans about Holi and the Hindu faith and join them in 
recognizing this year's Festival of Colors.

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