Fort Lauderdale, Florida September 09, 2003. The National President of the Association of Indians in America (AIA), Dr. Piyush C. Agrawal told President Bush during the President's visit to Fort Lauderdale this evening that "We Americans are very pleased that the White House under his administration celebrates festivals of every major religion except the festival of Hindus. I request you, Mr. President to consider celebrating Diwali at the White House." The President replied "l will look into it; send me more details." Piyush then continued his request that "Mr. President, millions of Hindus will appreciate if they are mentioned in your speeches the way Christians, Jews & Muslims are." The President did not respond to that request immediately but he heard it clearly. After about fifteen minutes of that conversation when he made a major campaign speech, he did mention Hindus along with Christians, Jews & Muslims. Some of the Hindu attendees at the event were delighted to hear Hindus being mentioned by the President probably for the first time.

For more information, contact Dr. Piyush C. Agrawal at the numbers/address given below.