Now Diwali is a School Holiday in New York, Governor Hochul Signs Legislation for It

New York State Governor Kathy Hochul signed legislation making Diwali a school holiday for New York City public schools.

A press release from Hochul’s office said as per the new legislation, all public schools in New York City will be closed on the “15th day of the eighth month of the Indian calendar in each year, which is known as Diwali”.

Hochul said on Tuesday that the legislation to designate Diwali as a New York City school holiday is “an opportunity for our children to learn about and celebrate traditions from across the world.”

In a post on X, Hochul said that she believes a celebration of light should not be commemorated in the dark. “That’s why tonight, we took action to bring people together. As we gathered to celebrate Diwali, I was proud to sign historic legislation making Diwali a New York City public school holiday!”

This decision was welcomed by Indians, Bangladeshis and Nepalese people living in New York.