Press Releases: Vesak Day
Press Statement
Rex W. Tillerson
Secretary of State
Secretary of State
Washington, DC
May 9, 2017
On behalf of the people of the United States of America, I offer our best wishes to all those celebrating Vesak Day.
As Buddhist communities around the world gather, we wish you a joyous remembrance of the birth, enlightenment, and passing of Siddhartha Gautama, the founder of Buddhism. Celebrations on this day symbolize peace, compassion, and goodwill, universal values we all share.
Vesak is celebrated by diverse Buddhist communities worldwide including here in the United States. In honor of Vesak Day, we recognize the enduring contributions to thought, culture, and belief that Buddhism has made for over 2,500 years.
May you all enjoy a peaceful and joyful Vesak.