On behalf of the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID), I want to wish Buddhists in the United States and around the world a joyous Vesak, a celebration of the Buddha’s birth, enlightenment, and passing.
Vesak, one of the most important Buddhist festivals, is a time of reflection on the Buddha’s teachings of peace, compassion, and enlightenment, and reminds us of the importance of USAID’s work to advance the cause of human dignity and serve those most in need. On this day, we commemorate the many contributions of Buddhists to humanity’s progress and recommit ourselves to building a more enlightened and peaceful world.