IAMC Condemns Far-Right Disruption of Diwali Celebration in Seattle

Washington, D.C. (November 8, 2026) – The Indian American Muslim Council (IAMC) condemns the brazen act of racial and religious hatred at a Diwali celebration in Seattle on Saturday. Far-right activists Jake Lang and Thomas Allen stormed the Seattle Center Armory and disrupted a dance performance with signs that used a racial slur to demand the deportation of Indians and accused Hindus of “replacing” Christians. 

The festival was part of Seattle Center Festál, a city-supported series of free cultural festivals. Lang and Allen’s vow to disrupt more celebrations this weekend threatens public safety and is an affront to the American Hindu community. Law enforcement and city officials must act before anyone is harmed. 

“Hindu Americans gathering with their families to celebrate Diwali deserve to do so in peace and safety. What happened in Seattle was racist intimidation aimed at a religious community, and it should alarm every American who values religious freedom,” said Mohammed Jawad, President of IAMC. 

IAMC joins Congresswoman Pramila Jayapal, who called the incident vile and racist, and other community leaders in condemning it. IAMC urges the Seattle Police Department and Seattle Center to ensure the security of upcoming cultural and religious events, and calls on elected officials at every level to speak out clearly against racist and religious bigotry targeting South Asian communities.

The past year has seen a striking rise in racist hatred toward immigrant communities, including Hindus and Muslims, and this is a matter of serious concern. IAMC stands in solidarity with Seattle’s Hindu and Indian American community and wishes everyone celebrating a joyful and peaceful Diwali