BREAKING: California is on the verge of becoming the latest U.S. state to officially recognize Diwali as a state holiday. Just last week, the California Legislature passed Assembly Bill 268, positioning Diwali, known as the “Festival of Lights,” for inclusion in the state’s official holiday list. This urgent development could allow community colleges and public schools to close on this significant day, with state employees having the option to take the day off.
The bill is now awaiting the signature of Gov. Gavin Newsom, who must approve it by October 12 for it to become law. A spokesperson for Newsom could not be reached for immediate comment.
Assemblymember Ash Kalra (D-San José), who introduced the bill, emphasized the cultural and historical importance of Diwali, stating,
“Designating Diwali as an official state holiday not only recognizes the festival’s religious and historical importance but will better enable those throughout the Indian diaspora and beyond to take part in one of the world’s oldest religious holidays.”
Diwali, celebrated for five days, marks the beginning of the new year in the Hindu calendar. Traditionally observed in October or November, it signifies the end of the harvest season. The festivities center around honoring the goddess of prosperity, Lakshmi, with homes adorned in lights to invite her blessings. The holiday fosters community bonding, with gatherings of family and friends, along with the exchange of gifts and sweets.
This year, Diwali falls on October 20, and if Assembly Bill 268 is signed into law, it would represent a monumental acknowledgment of the Hindu and broader South Asian communities. Shakeel Syed, executive director of the South Asian Network of Southern California, remarked that this recognition is vital for younger generations. He stated it helps integrate the community fully into society, allowing them to celebrate their heritage without feeling marginalized.
California boasts the largest South Asian population in the U.S., with Los Angeles having the fourth-largest South Asian metropolitan population. The recent push for Diwali’s recognition follows similar actions by several states. Pennsylvania was the first state to designate Diwali as an official holiday in 2024, while Connecticut and New Jersey have also made strides to recognize the occasion. New York City public schools closed for Diwali following a law enacted in 2023.
Syed added,
“These initiatives really negate and mitigate the very pervasive idea of seeing immigrants as permanent foreigners in this country, only because of their color or language. I applaud the California Legislature for sending a message to the country that we are a nation of immigrants.”
The potential addition of Diwali to California’s holiday calendar is more than just a day off; it represents a significant cultural recognition that could resonate with millions. As the deadline for the governor’s signature approaches, communities across the state are eagerly awaiting the outcome.
Stay tuned for further updates as this story develops.
