Upon a request made by Ambassador of Sri Lanka to the United States, Mahinda Samarasinghe, Mayor Muriel Bowser of Washington D.C. has issued a Proclamation declaring May 23, 2024 as “Vesak Festival Day” in the American Capital. The Ambassador made this request after meeting with the Mayor earlier this year.

The Proclamation acknowledges that Vesak is the most sacred day for Buddhists as it marks the birth, enlightenment and passing of the Buddha. It also recognizes that over 3 million Buddhists live in the United States and that the festival is of utmost significance to them. It also adverts to the Buddhist adherence to universal values of tolerance, compassion and service to humanity which are commemorated by persons of other faiths as well.

Anthony Andrews, Director of International Affairs and Protocol Officer, Executive Office of the Mayor, on behalf of Mayor Bowser and Secretary of D.C., Kimberly Bassett, handed over the Proclamation to Ambassador Samarasinghe at the Embassy of Sri Lanka on Friday, May 17. Diplomatic officers of the Embassy of Sri Lanka were also associated with Ambassador Samarasinghe on the occasion.

Embassy of Sri Lanka to the United States

Washington D.C.

17 May, 2024