On behalf of the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID), I would like to extend warm greetings to everyone who is celebrating religious holidays this month and wish a Happy New Year to all.

While many of us traditionally spend the Holiday Season gathered with family and friends, I recognize we might be unable to celebrate as usual this year. Despite the unprecedented challenges we face, I hope you find solace in the Holiday Season’s emphasis on hope, love, charity, and the remembrance of generations before us who found peace after hardship.

Happy Hanukkah to those who began the eight-day celebration on Thursday. Warm wishes to communities that are celebrating Kwanzaa later this month, and Merry Christmas to Christians who are celebrating in the weeks and months ahead. No matter which holiday or traditions you honor, I hope we all find in this season a moment to reflect on the gifts of the year behind us, even during these unusual times, and look forward to the new year ahead. 

I wish you all peace, joy, health, and prosperity in 2021.