The Massachusetts Asian American and Pacific Islanders Commission (AAPIC) will host its annual Diwali celebration at the Massachusetts State House on Monday, November 16. This year's celebration is sponsored by the Asian and Pacific Islander Legislative Caucus (APILC) and held in partnership with community organizations from across Massachusetts.

With their elections, Leila Bhatti Migliorelli and Ravi Simon are set to become the first South Asian members of the Massachusetts Legislature when they take office in January 2027.

According to 2020–2024 U.S. Census Bureau American Community Survey estimates, approximately 156,000 Massachusetts residents reported Asian Indian, Pakistani, Bangladeshi, or Nepalese backgrounds alone. This figure does not include residents with Sri Lankan, Afghan, Bhutanese, or other South Asian backgrounds.

AAPIC has hosted Diwali celebrations at the State House for years. Last year's celebration drew more than 250 attendees.

AAPIC Commissioner and Vice Chairperson Rakashi Chand, who initiated the State House Diwali celebration, reflected on the importance of holding this event:

"Growing up as a South Asian in the Boston area, I rarely saw our holidays and traditions reflected in public life. Events like this matter because they remind people that they belong. Diwali is an important celebration for many families across Massachusetts, and bringing it to the State House sends a powerful message that our community is a valued part of the Commonwealth. We are grateful to APILC and our partners for helping continue this tradition and for creating a space where people can celebrate their heritage, build connections, and recognize the growing contributions of South Asians across Massachusetts."

For AAPIC, the celebration is also an opportunity to build relationships between community members, organizations, and state government.

"AAPIC works with Asian American and Pacific Islander communities to bring their experiences and priorities into conversations with state government. We help create opportunities for residents and community organizations to connect with public officials, share what their communities are experiencing, and engage with the institutions that serve them. Those relationships are an important part of ensuring community perspectives are heard," said Amihan Matias, Executive Director of AAPIC.

Known as the Festival of Lights, Diwali is celebrated by Hindus, Sikhs, Jains, and some Buddhists, with traditions and significance that vary across communities. The lighting of lamps is commonly associated with the triumph of light over darkness and the beginning of a new season of hope and renewal. Celebrations often include family gatherings, prayers, food, and cultural traditions passed down through generations.

AAPIC and its partners welcome community members and the public to join this year's celebration.

EVENT INFORMATION

AAPIC Annual Diwali Celebration

Date: Monday, November 16, 2026
Time: 1:00–2:00 p.m.
Location: Massachusetts State House, Great Hall
24 Beacon Street, Boston, MA

RSVP: https://tr.ee/diwali26

Attendees are encouraged to arrive early to allow time for State House security screening.

Members of the media interested in attending or arranging interviews with AAPIC leadership and participating elected officials are encouraged to contact Rakashi Chand in advance.

EVENT PARTNERS

Hosted by the Massachusetts Asian American and Pacific Islanders Commission, sponsored by the MA Asian and Pacific Islander Legislative Caucus, in partnership with community organizations Asian Pacific Islanders Civic Action Network, Desi Girls and the City, India Association of Greater Boston, Meher Foundation, Saheli, TiE Boston, and United India Association of New England

About AAPIC

Founded in 2006, the Massachusetts Asian American and Pacific Islanders Commission is the Commonwealth's permanent statewide body dedicated to addressing the needs and challenges of Asian American and Pacific Islander communities. The Commission works to bring community experiences and perspectives into state policymaking, connect residents with government resources, and invest in community-led solutions.

For more information, visit aapicommission.org.