Milpitas (California)Nov 09,2026-The North American Punjabi Association (NAPA) Executive Director Satnam Singh Chahal in a press release issued here today expresses its concern over the disruption of the Diwali: Lights of India cultural celebration at Seattle Center Armory in Washington State on November 7, 2026. The event, which brought families and members of the community together to celebrate the festival of Diwali, was reportedly interrupted by individuals carrying placards containing offensive messages directed towards the Hindu community and people of South Asian origin.NAPA believes that every individual and every community deserves the freedom to celebrate its religious festivals, preserve its cultural traditions and express its identity with dignity and respect. Differences in religious beliefs, cultural backgrounds and personal opinions should never become a reason for hostility, discrimination or disrespect towards others.
Chahal very sincerely appeals to all communities, regardless of their religion, race, culture or nationality, to maintain brotherhood, understanding and healthy relationships with one another. We all share the same society, and our children deserve to grow up in an environment where friendship, kindness, mutual respect and peaceful coexistence are valued.We also appeal to community leaders, religious organisations and social representatives to encourage dialogue, understanding and cooperation whenever differences arise. Peaceful disagreement is part of a democratic society, but targeting or insulting an entire religious or ethnic community can create unnecessary divisions and hurt feelings.
The United States is home to people from different parts of the world, representing numerous faiths, languages and cultures. This diversity should bring communities closer rather than create distance between them. Festivals such as Diwali provide opportunities for people from different backgrounds to come together, learn about one another and share happiness.NAPA firmly believes that humanity comes before religious and cultural differences. We should respect one another’s faith, traditions and beliefs while working together for a peaceful, inclusive and harmonious society.
Our message is simple: Let us build bridges, not walls; promote friendship, not division; and choose brotherhood, not hostility.added Chahal