On the 23rd of May Vesak Poya celebration of Vesak 2024 was organized by the White House, the official residence of the President of the United States.
Attendees included Douglas Emhoff, husband of the American vice president, and White House officials such as Erica Moritsugu, assistant to President Biden; Donald Lu, assistant secretary of the State Department; Afrin Akhtar, assistant secretary of the office; and others.
President Biden issued a message appreciating the value of the Vesak festival.
Sri Lankan Ambassador Mahinda Samarasinghe and ambassadors and high officials from other Buddhist countries also attended. Notably, Ambassador Samarasinghe facilitated the official recognition of Vesak Day in Washington through Mayor Muriel Bowser.
Buddha statues brought from Sri Lanka and placed in the White House by the embassy were used for the celebration.
The event was joined by Maryland Vihara chief Katugastota Uparathana, Hayestown Vihara chief Keretugala Indrathana, Mahamevna Vihara chief Thalawe Amitabodhi, Atkadawana Sardhajeeva representing the West Virginia Vihara, and Vathuliyedde Ratanaseeha, a resident of Washington Vihara. Mahayana and Theravada monks from other countries and many representatives of international Buddhist associations and civil organizations also participated.
(Ashoka Jayatunga from Washington DC)
