Secretary Blinken to Host Diwali Reception

Secretary of State Antony J. Blinken will host a Diwali reception on Friday, November 1, 2024, at 4:30 p.m. EDT in the Benjamin Franklin Room at the U.S. Department of State and will be joined by Deputy Secretary of State for Management and Resources Richard R. Verma.  

The celebration of Diwali transcends borders, uniting diverse cultures and religions in a shared spirit of joy, peace, and prosperity.  As Hindus, Buddhists, Jains, and Sikhs prepare to observe Diwali, we join communities across the globe in celebrating this day dedicated to hope, renewal, and light. 

The event is open to the press and will be live streamed on the Department homepage and the Department YouTube channel .  Pre-set time for cameras is 3:30 p.m. EDT from the 23rd Street entrance.  Final access time for writers and stills is 4:00 p.m. EDT from the 23rd Street entrance. 

Media representatives may attend this event upon presentation of one of the following: (1) a U.S. Government-issued photo media credential (e.g., Department of State, White House, Congress, Department of Defense or Foreign Press Center); (2) an official photo identification card issued by their news organization; or (3) a letter from their employer on official letterhead verifying their current employment as a journalist.  Additionally, media representatives must present an official government photo identification card (i.e., U.S. driver’s license or passport).  

For more information, please contact SCA-Press@state.gov.