Seattle: During the Diwali celebration held in Seattle, Washington, United States, extremist left-wing activists appeared with hate slogans targeting the Hindu community, sparking controversy. The incident took place on November 7 at the Seattle Center Armory. The protest was led by Jake Lang and Thomas Allen. As performers including children presented cultural programs on stage, protesters arrived holding American flags and placards bearing anti-Hindu messages. The placards contained racist and religiously hateful slogans such as “Stop Hindus from coming instead of Christians” and “Deport all those who are insulted as ‘Dot Heads’.” The term “Dot Heads” is a racial slur used to disparage Indian-origin people, particularly the Hindu community. Another slogan raised by the protesters reflected an unfounded conspiracy theory claiming that immigrants and minorities are replacing the Christian population. The participants of the celebration strongly opposed the protesters’ actions and subsequently removed them from the stage and the venue. Video footage of the incident circulated widely on social media. Indian American Congresswoman Pramila Jayapal, who is of Indian descent, strongly condemned the incident. She stated that Diwali is an important celebration and that people should be able to participate in their religious and cultural festivities without fear. She added that such hateful demonstrations have no place in Seattle or America. Indian American leader Ajay Jain Bhuttooria also condemned the incident, describing Diwali as a celebration of light, family bonds, and happiness, and said that racial slurs against Indian-origin people and the Hindu community are unacceptable. The Coalition of Hindus of North America (CoHNA) condemned the incident and called on the Hindu community in Seattle and nearby areas to remain vigilant. Meanwhile, Jake Lang alleged that he was attacked during the protest, claiming that the demonstration was a part of constitutionally guaranteed freedom of speech. However, these allegations of assault have not been independently verified. Jake Lang, who was involved in legal cases related to the January 6, 2021 events at the U.S. Capitol, was pardoned in January 2025 by former President Donald Trump. The Seattle incident has once again opened the door to discussions on religious freedom and the safety of immigrant communities in the United States, a country where various religious groups and cultures coexist with mutual respect.
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Original Malayalam report: Malayalam Daily News
