In his message for Diwali, Anthony Albanese acknowledges the Australian Indian community and its role in “shaping our nation into what it is today”.
Australian Labour Party’s leader of the opposition in the Federal Parliament, Anthony Albanese, in his Diwali message has called the festival of Diwali a timely reminder of the power of unity that brings together Hindus, Jains, Sikhs and even some Buddhists. Mr Albanese said that, among its myriad beautiful aspects, Diwali can surely be seen as a celebration of what unites India and Australia: multiculturalism and respect for other religions.
Mr Albanese said, “If there’s something we need in this time of uncertainty, it is the glow of your diyas to remind us of light’s triumph over darkness. With all the joy and hope that it brings, Diwali is a wonderful festival at the best of times. However, in a time as challenging as this, it manages to become something
even greater – a powerful and uplifting reassurance of the triumph to come.”
“Even amid all the upheaval that the pandemic has wrought, Diwali stands tall as a striking expression of your tradition, your spirituality, your devotion and your faith. Just as Diwali was here long before the pandemic, it will be going strong long after the pandemic has passed into memory.”, Mr Albanese added.
“I would like to once again acknowledge the Australian Indian community and your role in shaping our nation into what it is today. Australia without you is simply unimaginable. With Diwali, you remind us that our nation is at its best as a great coming together, one in which we can celebrate and cherish our different heritages but unite as a multi-faceted whole. That, I think, is one of the greatest joys of Australia. We are greater than the sum of our parts and that is definitely worth celebrating.”
In her message to Australia’s Hindu, Sikh and Jain communities, Federal Shadow Minister for Communication Michelle Rowland, said that Diwali provides us the opportunity to celebrate light overcoming darkness, good over evil, and love over hate.
“As we emerge from some of the darker periods this year ensued by COVID-19, this year Diwali holds even greater significance. This year the Festival of Lights reminds us that, even in the darkest of times, we should remain optimistic and hopeful as light is always around the corner.”, Ms Rowland said.
Joining his labour colleagues, New South Wales leader of opposition Chris Minns also extended her best wishes for peace, prosperity and hope for the year ahead.
“Diwali also marks the return of Lord Rama and, for Sikh communities, the return of Guru Hargobind, the sixth Guru. It is time for reflection and optimism.”, Mr Minns said.
He thanked the many Hindu, Sikh and Jain essential workers in NSW – “from our nurses, paramedics doctors, teachers and retail employees – who have worked tirelessly for the past 18 months to keep our community safe, often putting their own health at risk to do so.”
“Despite the challenges, I hope the Hindu, Sikh and Jain communities in New South Wales will enjoy this year’s Diwali and take comfort in their values and traditions, and in the hope that next year we will be able to celebrate together.”
