Notice What’s Missing at the U.S. Postal Service – The Hindu Holiday Diwali (Deepavali)
Did you notice what’s missing in the picture above? If you answered Diwali (aka Deepavali) you guessed right. While there are stamps from all other major World faiths commemorating Christmas (Christianity), Hanukkah (Judaism), Kwanzaa (African Heritage) and Eid (Islam), there is no U.S. postage stamp commemorating Diwali (celebrated in Hinduism, Sikhism, Buddhism, Jainism).
This isn’t the first time Hindus have been excluded from ‘supposed’ inclusive policies or programs. Last year the New York Department of Education announced that the Islamic holiday of Eid will be declared a holiday for all students – a policy that came after Jews and Christians also had some of their religious celebrations declared as holidays. In this case, Diwali and Hindus, Sikhs, Buddhists & Pagans again were left out and not given equal rights. (Hindus Wait for Diwali Holiday in New York Schools After Christians, Jews & Muslims Get Their Holidays)
Many Hindus have shown said they continue to feel ignored. An equal rights activist we spoke to suggested that such instances where Hindus are not included could be due to the growing trend of Hinduphobia. Resolutions have been introduced in both chambers of Congress to urge the U.S. Citizens’ Stamp Advisory Committee to issue an official Diwali stamp. A Diwali stamp is a small, but symbolic step to educate the public about the positive message of this Hindu holiday, acknowledge the contributions of Hindu Americans to the United States, and celebrate the diversity that makes this nation great.
Call your U.S. Congressional officials today and ask them to support House Resolution 32 and Senate Resolution 113.
Many in the community, including the Hindu American Foundation (HAF), have been advocating for a Diwali stamp for years. But it’s going to take more. We need to work together to send a clear message that the voices of Hindu Americans count. Join that chorus by making your voice heard today!
To find out if your Representative and Senators have signed on already, follow the links below:
- House Resolution 32
- Senate Resolution 113
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