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PROCLAMATION: Diwali Day - A Festival of Lights, November 1,
2024
November 6, 2024 - REGULAR MEETING OF THE MOUNT
PROSPECT VILLAGE BOARD
MAYORS REPORT
Presentation
Staff Recommendation
Attachments
1. VOMP Diwali Proclamation final
PROCLAMATION
Diwali — The Festival of Lights
November 1, 2024
WHEREAS, Diwali, known as the "Festival of Lights", is a holiday of religious and cultural
importance to Hindus, Sikhs, Jains, and Buddhists, celebrated by more than one billion
people worldwide every Fall; and
WHEREAS, the Hindu, Sikh, Jain, and Buddhist communities which are comprised of
mostly Indian and South Asian Americans, as well as other diverse races and ethnicities,
constitute a vital part of the Village of Mount Prospect's diverse ethnic and social fabric,
and whose cultures have enriched our community; and
WHEREAS, the word "Diwali", is a shortened version of the Sanskrit word "Deepavali,"
which means a "row of lamps". The flame of the lamps signify the triumph of light over
darkness, knowledge over ignorance, good over evil, and hope over fear;
WHEREAS, Diwali is celebrated over five days, during which oil lamps, or diyas, are lit
and placed around the home, while celebrants reflect and pray for knowledge, peace, and
universal well-being; and
WHEREAS, Diwali also marks the beginning of the Hindu new year, which is celebrated
with gatherings, gifts, sweets, and traditions, such as decorating floors with colorful rangoli
art; and
WHEREAS, on November 1St, our Indian and South Asian American neighbors will come
together and celebrate their rich heritage and traditions, which promote inclusivity and
cultural connectedness throughout our Village; and
WHEREAS, the Village of Mount Prospect recognizes the significance of the historic
holiday of Diwali, and its message of tolerance, compassion, and the victory of good over
evil, which resonates with the American spirit.
NOW, THEREFORE, I, Paul Wm. Hoefert, Mayor of the Village of Mount Prospect, do
hereby recognize
DIWALI
as an important holiday in the Village of Mount Prospect and encourage residents of all
faiths to join our Hindu, Sikh, Jain, and Buddhist communities in a day of global
observance of Diwali, the Festival of Lights.
Paul Wm. Hoefert
Mayor
ATTEST:
Karen M. Agoranos
Village Clerk