Diwali became an official holiday in Pennsylvania

Nearly 13 million Americans in Pennsylvania now have an additional holiday after Gov. Josh Shapiro signed a bill recognizing Diwali as an official holiday.

Diwali, also known as the Festival of Lights, is an Indian holiday that takes the form of a five-day festival and ultimately marks the victory of light over darkness.

The holiday was enacted this week as part of Senate Bill 402 after it was approved by Senator Greg Rothman, who represents the 34th District, which includes Cumberland, Dauphin and Perry counties, and Senator Nikil Saval, who represents Philadelphia has been introduced.

It is important to note that Diwali is now an official state holiday and schools, government offices and businesses are not required to close on this holiday.

“The recognition serves as a recognition of the cultural significance of the festival and encourages all Pennsylvanians,” Shapiro’s office said.

Shapiro said, “By signing this legislation, we not only recognize the importance of Diwali, but also celebrate the rich cultural heritage and many contributions of the Asian American community in Pennsylvania. Diwali symbolizes the triumph of light over darkness, knowledge over ignorance and hope rather than despair – values ​​that should guide our Commonwealth.”

“Pennsylvania is stronger because of its diversity,” he added, “and this new state holiday is a powerful expression of the inclusion, respect and unity we value in this commonwealth. Today we reaffirm our commitment to honor traditions and cultures.” Make our state vibrant and dynamic.

The main day on which Diwali is celebrated, usually the third day of the festival, falls on a different autumn day every year – the 15th day of the Hindu lunar month of Kartik.

This year it falls from October 29th to November 3rd, with the third day falling on October 31st.

Senate Bill 402 received bipartisan support in both the House and Senate. Senator Rothman, a Republican, said: “Recognizing Diwali as an official state holiday celebrates the rich cultural diversity of our Commonwealth. I am grateful to Governor Shapiro for signing this historic legislation.”

Similarly, Senator Saval, a Democrat, said: “Wherever we come from and whatever our background, we all deserve to have our culture recognized and honored. As the number of Asian Americans continues to grow here in Pennsylvania and throughout the rest of the world. “In our 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 was emailed seeking further comment Newsweek.