Meng Hails Diwali Stamp

Today, the United States Postal Service announced that it will issue a commemorative Diwali stamp on October 5, 2016. Diwali is an ancient Hindu, Sikh, and Jain festival that is an official holiday in many South Asian countries.

There are approximately 2.5 million Hindus in the United States, and over 60 percent of New York City's South Asian population lives in Queens, NY. Queens is also home to several of the oldest Hindu, Sikh, and Jain temples in the country.

The stamp announced today will feature a traditional ‘diya', or oil lamp, and will be a ‘Forever' stamp. Forever stamps never decrease in value, no matter when they are used. The U.S. Postal Service currently issues commemorative stamps for Hanukkah, Kwanzaa, Eid, Lunar New Year, and Christmas.

"I'm thrilled that Diwali will finally be recognized for the important role it plays in the fabric of our nation. Also known as the Festival of Lights, it is a special time for family and friends to come together, and to celebrate the triumph of good over evil, light over darkness, and knowledge over ignorance," said Meng. "It is celebrated by Hindus, Sikhs, Jains, and some Buddhists throughout the United States and across the world. The issuance of this stamp is the result of almost ten years of community activism and advocacy, and I thank everyone who has worked to make this possible – including Congresswoman Carolyn Maloney who has led the Congressional effort for many years."

Congresswoman Meng has consistently supported the issuance of a Diwali stamp since her election to federal office, and has co-sponsored multiple resolutions expressing that support within the U.S House of Representatives. In addition to supporting the issuance of a commemorative stamp, Congresswoman Meng also supports efforts to make Diwali a school holiday within New York City schools.