Washington: Criticising the “disturbing and hateful” poll rhetoric, First Lady Michelle Obama has asserted that America is a “nation of immigrants” and diversity will always be its greatest strength.

“We think America is strongest when we recognize our many traditions, when we celebrate our diversity, and when we lift each other up,” Michelle said during Nowruz celebrations at the White House yesterday.

“In times like these, when we think all– that’s more important than ever before, right now and today with what’s going on. “Right now, when we’re hearing so much disturbing and hateful rhetoric, it is so important to remember that our diversity has been – and will always be – our greatest source of strength and pride here in the United States,” she said. “We are a nation of immigrants. And we should cherish the talent and energy and the beautiful traditions and cultures that come with that heritage, not just today but every day,” she said. In her remarks, she underscored the number of festivals of various cultures now White House has been celebrating. “I’m proud that here at the White House, we host special events to mark the holidays but we celebrate St Patrick’s Day, Diwali, Cinco de Mayo. And with your help, today, we’re celebrating Nowruz, which is one of our newest White House traditions,” Michelle said. Nowruz, she said, is a time to visit loved ones. It’s a time to reflect on the past year, and to renew hopes for the New Year to come. Nowruz is a traditional Iranian festival of spring and considered as the beginning of the New Year among Iranians. — PTI