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Pennsylvania declares Diwali a state holiday

NRI PULSE STAFF REPORT

Harrisburg, PA, October 28, 2024: In a landmark move recognizing cultural diversity, Governor Josh Shapiro signed Senate Bill 402 into law on Monday, designating Diwali as an official state holiday in Pennsylvania. The new law celebrates the significant contributions of Pennsylvanians who observe Diwali and the over one billion people globally who participate in this “Festival of Lights.”

At a Diwali, Tihar, and Bandi Chhor Diwas celebration hosted by the Governor’s Advisory Commission on Asian American & Pacific Islander Affairs in the atrium of the Keystone Building in downtown Harrisburg, Gov. Shapiro saidL “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.” He highlighted the holiday’s symbolic message of “the triumph of light over darkness, knowledge over ignorance, and hope over despair,” aligning these values with Pennsylvania’s dedication to diversity and inclusion.

Razin Karu, Executive Director of the Governor’s Advisory Commission on Asian American & Pacific Islander Affairs, shared his enthusiasm about the law’s passage, saying, “It’s a privilege to join Governor Shapiro as he signs this law to officially recognize Diwali as a state holiday in Pennsylvania.” The bipartisan legislation, led by Senators Greg Rothman and Nikil Saval and supported by Representative Arvind Venkat, reflects widespread political support. Senator Rothman expressed his gratitude for the bill’s approval, calling it a testament to cultural diversity, while Senator Saval emphasized, “Our Commonwealth’s official recognition of Diwali sends a clear message of inclusion.” Representative Venkat noted Diwali’s emphasis on family unity and praised the bill’s role in promoting community cohesion.

The legislation, sponsored by Senator Greg Rothman and Senator Nikil Saval, garnered broad bipartisan support in both the Senate and House. Representative Arvind Venkat championed companion legislation, House Bill 436, which passed in April 2023.

“Recognizing Diwali as an official state holiday celebrates our Commonwealth’s rich cultural diversity,” said Senator Rothman. “I’m grateful for Governor Shapiro’s signature on this historic legislation.”

“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,” said Senator Saval. “I am so proud to have worked with my colleagues in the state legislature to put Pennsylvania at the forefront by acknowledging Diwali’s deep cultural significance and inviting all people to reflect on the endless struggle of light over darkness.”

“Diwali, the Festival of Lights, is celebrated by over a billion Hindus, Jains, Sikhs, and Buddhists worldwide, including hundreds of thousands in Pennsylvania. It represents not only the celebration of the triumph of good over evil, but also a sacred time for families of multiple faiths to celebrate the bond that keeps them together and strengthens their connections with one another,” said Representative Venkat.

Though officially designated as a state holiday, schools, government offices, and businesses are not required to close on Diwali. The recognition serves as an acknowledgment of the cultural significance of the festival and encourages all Pennsylvanians to embrace and celebrate the diverse traditions that make up the fabric of the state.

The law, which designates the 15th day of the Hindu lunisolar month of Kartik as “Diwali Day” annually, takes effect immediately, making Diwali 2024 the first official celebration under the new law.

Cover photo courtesy: Governor Shapiro’s Facebook page.

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