The First White House celebration of Buddha's Birthday

26th May 2021 marked the celebration of Vesak, the holiest day in Buddhism. This day commemorates the birth, awakening, and passing away of our precious teacher, Shakyamuni Buddha. It is a day we remember the Dharma taught by Gautam Buddha, the path that leads to the perfect freedom from suffering.

In honor of Vesak, an official statement from the White House has been announced by President Biden. They expressed their warmest wishes to all the Buddhists in the US and around the world.

Wangmo Dixey, Executive Director of Dharma College and President of the International Buddhist Association of America, coordinated the event with the offices of Mr.Shekar Narasimhan, President of the Dharma into Action Foundation. The celebration included candle lighting with the Second Gentleman, Douglas Emhoff, and prayers by leaders from the three major Buddhist traditions: Theravada, Mahayana, and Vajrayana.

Written by Souradeep Chakma