A public Diwali celebration in Seattle was disrupted on Saturday after two far-right activists entered the venue carrying placards featuring anti-Hindu and anti-South Asian slogans, drawing confrontation from attendees and condemnation from political leaders.
The activists, identified as Jake Lang and Thomas Allen, appeared at the Diwali: Lights of India festival at Seattle Center Armory with American flags and signs reading "Deport All Dot Heads" and "Stop Hindu Replacement of Christians."
The demonstration took place while cultural performances were underway and families were attending the festival. Videos circulating on social media showed attendees confronting the activists before security intervened and escorted them out of the venue.
The phrase "Dot Heads" is a racial slur directed at South Asians, particularly people of Indian origin, referencing the traditional forehead mark worn by many Hindus.
Following the confrontation, Lang shared videos and claims about the incident on social media, alleging that attendees had assaulted him and his associate. The allegations have not been independently established.
Lang also defended the demonstration as an exercise of his First Amendment rights.
Jayapal condemns the demonstrationUS Representative Pramila Jayapal condemned the incident, describing the demonstration as racist and unacceptable.
"I am beyond disgusted by this vile and racist display," Jayapal wrote in a public statement.
She said members of the Hindu community should be able to celebrate their religious and cultural festivals without facing intimidation or discrimination.
Indian-American businessman and former White House adviser Ajay Jain Bhutoria also criticized the demonstration, expressing concern over the targeting of Hindu Americans and the use of racial slurs.
Who is Jake Lang?Jake Lang is a far-right activist who participated in the January 6, 2021, attack on the US Capitol. He was subsequently arrested and spent approximately four years in custody before receiving a presidential pardon from Donald Trump on January 20, 2025.
Lang has remained active in far-right political circles following his release.
A celebration of Indian cultureThe Diwali: Lights of India festival was organized as part of Seattle Center's Festál cultural celebration program. The event featured Indian classical music, traditional dance performances, cultural exhibitions, workshops and food.
Diwali, widely known as the Festival of Lights, is celebrated by millions of people around the world, particularly among Hindu, Jain and Sikh communities, although traditions and religious significance vary.
The disruption has renewed concerns about racism, religious hostility and the safety of South Asian communities participating in public cultural celebrations in the United States.
Inner Circle Nepal News Desk
