In a historic move, New York City Mayor Eric Adams declared Diwali, the festival of lights, as a public school holiday for the first time in the city’s history. The decision was hailed by Deputy Commissioner Dilip Chauhan, who credited years of dedicated advocacy by the Indian diaspora and the Indian-American community.
Deputy Commissioner Chauhan expressed his joy at this significant development, emphasizing the hard work put in by the Indian diaspora to achieve this milestone. “Diwali means the festival of light over darkness,” he remarked, underscoring the cultural and religious importance of the celebration.
“This year Diwali is so significant, first time in the history of New York City, Mayor Eric Adams has declared Diwali as a public holiday in the school of New York City, after years of advocacy,” said Mr. Chauhan. He highlighted the opportunity for children to spend the holiday at home with their families, visit religious places, and celebrate with the community.
New York Mayor Eric Adams, in June, announced the decision to recognize Diwali as a school holiday, making it a momentous occasion for the thousands of New Yorkers who celebrate the festival annually. The legislation designating Diwali as a holiday in the largest school system in the U.S. received widespread support.
Mayor Adams, expressing his pride in this achievement, noted the collaborative efforts with Assemblymember Jenifer Rajkumar and community leaders. On Twitter, he stated, “I’m so proud to have stood with Assemblymember @JeniferRajkumar and community leaders in the fight to make Diwali a school holiday. Shubh Diwali!”
The declaration of Diwali as a public school holiday in New York City marks a significant win for local families, acknowledging the cultural diversity and the importance of celebrating traditions within the community.
Sources By Agencies
