Far-Right Activists Disrupt Seattle Diwali Celebration; Lawmakers Condemn Racist Display
A Diwali celebration in Seattle was disrupted by far-right activists on Saturday, November 7, drawing condemnation on November 8. The incident took place at a Seattle Center festival event while children were performing on stage.
Activists Jake Lang and Thomas Allen entered carrying anti-Hindu placards reading, among other slogans, 'Deport All Dot Heads' and 'Stop Hindu Replacement of Christians.' The two were escorted out of the venue.
U.S. Representative Pramila Jayapal condemned the incident in a post on X on November 8: 'I am beyond disgusted by this vile and racist display. Diwali is an important holiday and our community should feel safe to celebrate it. This hateful display has no place in our city or this country.' U.S. Representative Raja Krishnamoorthi also condemned the disruption and called for an end to hatred directed at Hindus.
Indian-American businessman Ajay Jain Bhutoria likewise condemned the incident. The Coalition of Hindus of North America (CoHNA) issued a community alert urging Hindus in Seattle and nearby areas to remain vigilant at Diwali celebrations, as the activists had announced plans to disrupt other events.
Diwali is one of the most important festivals in Hinduism, and celebrations in the Seattle area draw large numbers of South Asian American families each year. The disruption has heightened community attention to safety at festival events.
Source: U.S. Rep. Pramila Jayapal
Published by GSM · USA (original Chinese edition)
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