In the late months of 2023, New York State Governor Kathy Hochul signed legislations A.7768/S.7573 and S.7574/A.7769, instituting new days off for traditional holidays Diwali and Lunar New Year. Governor Hochul then released an official statement, saying “New York is rich in different religions and cultures, and we’re taking an important step to recognize and celebrate this diversity in the school calendar.” This step allows for students of all ethnicities and beliefs to take time off for their holidays alongside their families, and promotes diversity and inclusion in all New York public schools.
Diwali is an ancient Hindu holiday which celebrates the victory of the light over the darkness. There are five days of celebration, falling somewhere between late October and early November each year. The new law signed by Hochul gives students off for one of those days: the one known for the most festivities and family bonding. Diwali is most celebrated by people of south Asian heritage, and with New York’s growingly diverse population, it is a major step to recognize holidays beyond Judeo-Christian celebrations, celebrating our state’s diversity and progress in the modern world. New York State’s first Indian-American legislator, Jenifer Rajkumar, proposed this bill, and its signing into law is a major step in teaching about world cultures and honoring the traditions that over a billion people cherish.
Lunar New Year is a traditional holiday stemming from cultures in east and southeast Asia. The festivities last for up to 15 days, celebrating the arrival of spring and the rejuvenation of life. The new law by Hochul gives students in the New York State public school system one day off for this festive event, again recognizing diversity and cultural beauty in our communities. In her statement on this new legislation, Hochul states “(i)t is not just a day off from school – it is an opportunity for our children to learn about and celebrate their own or different cultures and traditions.” Lunar New Year is traditionally celebrated in countries such as China, Mongolia, Vietnam, Singapore, Thailand, and Korea, and by signing this bill into law, Hochul takes a step to celebrate the holiday in New York as well, as our nation would not be the powerhouse it is today without contributions from the growing Asian-American community.
In designating time off for these two holidays, Hochul acknowledges the vastly diverse New York population, increasing awareness of other cultures and allowing academics and family celebrations to conflict less for many Asian and south-Asian students. This is a major step towards total inclusion in our nation, and millions of New Yorkers will start to pave the way by celebrating Diwali and Lunar New Year starting in 2024.