New York state and Toronto formally recognise Diwali on November 8, honouring South Asian communities

New York state and the city of Toronto formally recognised Diwali on November 8. Governor Kathy Hochul signed a proclamation on October 26 designating November 8 as Diwali, the Festival of Lights, and Toronto Mayor Olivia Chow proclaimed the same day "Diwali Day" on behalf of city council. North Carolina and Washington state also issued proclamations honouring South Asian communities. (Photo: file photo of Diwali oil lamps.)

Hochul's proclamation honours South Asian and Indo-Caribbean contributions

Hochul's proclamation describes Diwali as "a deeply meaningful annual observance" celebrated by Hindus, Sikhs, Jains and Buddhists, and honours the "leadership and civic contributions" of New York's South Asian and Indo-Caribbean communities. India's Consulate in New York shared a photograph of the proclamation on social media and thanked the governor for recognising Indian Americans' contributions.

Toronto marks the day too; North Carolina and Washington follow

Toronto Mayor Olivia Chow proclaimed November 8 as Diwali Day on behalf of the city council; Washington Governor Bob Ferguson said in a Friday post that he had proclaimed November 8 as Diwali, and North Carolina issued a proclamation as well. South Asian communities across North America marked the festival with celebrations, lighting oil lamps and sharing sweets.

Diwali: light over darkness

Diwali, the Festival of Lights, is a major festival for Hindus, Sikhs, Jains and Buddhists, symbolising the triumph of light over darkness and good over evil. Families light oil lamps known as diyas, visit relatives and exchange sweets. As South Asian communities grow across North America, more cities and states are formally recognising the festival with official proclamations.