DOWNTOWN BROOKLYN — Diwali, a multi-day commemoration of light over darkness, good over evil and knowledge over ignorance, was celebrated for the first time at Kings County Supreme Court, courtesy of the Second Judicial District Equal Justice Committee.
Co-sponsored by the Asian American Judges Association of New York and the New York State Courts Asian Jade Society on the afternoon of Oct. 15, the event featured ethnic food, dancing and a dramatic lighting of the diyas.
Diwali, or Festival of Lights, is observed by millions of people in the Hindu, Sikh and Jain faiths, with the specific reason varying by religion. Generally, celebration involves lighting oil lamps (diyas) and is held from October through November.
Lisa Mangal, chair of the Second Judicial District’s Diwali Subcommittee. Brooklyn Eagle photo by Wayne Daren SchneidermanA symbol of light, truth, justice, and unity
The afternoon’s keynote speaker, Ranju Batra, chair of the Diwali Foundation USA, Inc., was responsible for spearheading the “Diwali Stamp,” a U.S. postage stamp issued by the U.S. Postal Service in 2016 to commemorate Diwali.
Hon. Matthew D’Emic lighting the diyas. Brooklyn Eagle photo by Wayne Daren Schneiderman
“It’s far more than ink and paper,” Batra said. “It is a message that our stories, our traditions, our celebrations are part of what makes America exceptional. Every time someone places that stamp on a letter, it carries with it a symbol of light, truth, justice and unity.”
Batra underlined that the Supreme Court, like Diwali, is a beacon. “It reminds us that truth and justice must be protected and shared,” she said.
Hon. Biju Koshy addressing the crowd. Brooklyn Eagle photo by Wayne Daren SchneidermanMore Diwali to come?
Other attendees included Hon. Matthew D’Emic and Hon. Genine Edwards, who both provided opening remarks.
D’Emic called the celebration “a wonderful thing,” and Edwards referred to it as “a beautiful celebration that reminds us that even in the darkest times we can find light.”
Entertainment courtesy of Panju Batra. Brooklyn Eagle photo by Wayne Daren Schneiderman
Hon. Biju Koshy, supervising judge of Richmond County Criminal Court, and president of the Asian American Judges Association of New York, emphasized that getting together “with good food, fellowship and, at the same time, learning about another culture, is simply incredible. I am really hoping this is the inaugural event of many to come.”
The Asian American Judges of New York was formed to address issues affecting Asian American judges, staff and litigants in the state courts. The Association also works to advance the inclusion of judges of Asian descent at all levels of the state court system and promote more diversity among the bar and the judiciary.
Ranju Batra, chair of the Diwali Foundation USA, Inc. Brooklyn Eagle photo by Wayne Daren SchneidermanRecognizing rich diversity
Hon. Joanne Quinones, who is also chair of the Second Judicial District Equal Justice Committee, told the Brooklyn Eagle that today is an opportunity to learn about the customs and practices of Diwali, which is in line with the mission of the Committee.
“We want to support, encourage, reflect and recognize the rich diversity of our district,” Quinones said. “This is also particularly significant in the court community, where the principles of life, justice, integrity and compassion are paramount.”
From left: Hon. Matthew D’Emic, Lt. Mido Mary Wu, Hon. Genine Edwards, Hon. Joanne Quinones, Ranju Batra, Hon. Biju Koshy, Lisa Mangal, and Panju Batra, on ground. Brooklyn Eagle photo by Wayne Daren Schneiderman
Lisa Mangal, chair of the Second Judicial District’s Diwali Subcommittee, pointed out that Diwali is one of the largest holidays for people of Indian descent and is celebrated by one billion worldwide. “This is such a great event, mainly because it’s so imperative to teach people about this holiday, which I’m sure many folks are unaware of.”