Almost 13 million Americans in Pennsylvania will now have an extra holiday, after Governor Josh Shapiro signed a bill into law which recognizes Diwali as an official holiday.
Diwali, also referred to as the festival of lights, is an Indian holiday which takes the form of a five-day festival which ultimately marks the victory of light over darkness.
The holiday was signed into law this week, under Senate Bill 402, after it was introduced by Senator Greg Rothman, who serves the 34th District, which includes the counties of Cumberland, Dauphin and Perry, as well as Senator Nikil Saval, who serves Philadelphia.
It is important to note that Diwali is now an official state holiday, schools, government offices and businesses are not required to close for the holiday.
"The recognition serves as an acknowledgment of the cultural significance of the festival and encourages all Pennsylvanians," Shapiro's office said.
Shapiro said: "By signing this bill into law, we are not only recognizing the importance of Diwali but also celebrating the rich cultural heritage and many contributions of the Asian American community to Pennsylvania. Diwali symbolizes the triumph of light over darkness, knowledge over ignorance, and hope over despair—values that should help guide our Commonwealth."
"Pennsylvania is stronger because of its diversity," he added, "and this new state holiday is a powerful reflection of the inclusion, respect and unity that we cherish in this Commonwealth. Today, we reaffirm our commitment to honoring the traditions and cultures that make our state vibrant and dynamic."
The main day that Diwali is celebrated, usually the third day of the festival, falls on a different autumn day each year—the 15th day of the Hindu lunisolar month of Kartik.
This year, it will fall from October 29 to November 3, with the third day falling on October 31.
Senate Bill 402 had bipartisan support in both the House and the Senate. Sen. Rothman, who is a Republican, said: "Recognizing Diwali as an official state holiday celebrates our Commonwealth's rich cultural diversity. I'm grateful for Governor Shapiro's signature on this historic legislation."
Similarly, Sen. Saval, who is a Democrat, said: "Wherever we're from and whatever our background, all of us deserve to have our cultures recognized and honored. As the number of Asian Americans grows steadily here in Pennsylvania and across the country, our Commonwealth's official recognition of Diwali sends a clear message of inclusion."
Other states that recognize Diwali as an official holiday in some capacity include New York, New Jersey and Texas.
Senator Shapiro's office has been emailed for further comment by Newsweek.
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