Governor Shapiro Signs Bipartisan Bill into Law Recognizing Diwali as an Official State Holiday in Pennsylvania

- ADVERTISEMENT -

Harrisburg, PA – October 22, 2024 – Governor Josh Shapiro officially signed Senate Bill 402 into law yesterday, designating Diwali as a state holiday in Pennsylvania. The signing took place during a vibrant celebration of Diwali, Tihar, and Bandi Chhor Diwas, hosted by the Governor’s Advisory Commission on Asian American & Pacific Islander Affairs in the Keystone Building’s atrium in downtown Harrisburg.

The bipartisan legislation marks a historic moment for the Commonwealth, reflecting its recognition of the rich cultural diversity of Pennsylvania’s residents. Diwali is celebrated by over one billion Buddhists, Hindus, Jains, and Sikhs worldwide, including hundreds of thousands of Pennsylvanians. The holiday symbolizes the triumph of light over darkness, knowledge over ignorance, and good over evil.

“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,” said Governor Shapiro. “Diwali represents values that should guide our Commonwealth — light over darkness, knowledge over ignorance, and hope over despair. Pennsylvania is stronger because of its diversity, and this new state holiday is a reflection of the inclusion, respect, and unity that we cherish.”

Diwali, known as the “Festival of Lights,” is one of South Asia’s most significant cultural celebrations. The festival, which lasts five days, features family gatherings, the lighting of lamps, and fireworks, with the main celebration occurring on the third day. This year, Diwali will be celebrated from October 29 to November 3, with the main festival day on October 31.

“Diwali is the most important festival for the Hindu, Jain, and Sikh communities. It symbolizes the victory of light over darkness, good over evil, knowledge over ignorance, and truth over falsehood,” said Razin Karu, Executive Director of the Governor’s Advisory Commission on Asian American & Pacific Islander Affairs. “Many Pennsylvanians with roots in India, Nepal, Bhutan, and Bangladesh observe the festival, and it’s a privilege to join Governor Shapiro as he signs this law recognizing Diwali as a state holiday.”

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

https://x.com/GovernorShapiro/status/1848741215828586564

“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.”

Senator Saval added, “Wherever we’re from and whatever our background, all of us deserve to have our cultures recognized and honored. Pennsylvania’s official recognition of Diwali sends a clear message of inclusion. I am so proud to have worked with my colleagues to acknowledge Diwali’s deep cultural significance.”

Though schools, government offices, and businesses are not required to close on Diwali, the holiday’s recognition as a state holiday encourages all Pennsylvanians to embrace the diverse traditions that make up the state’s cultural fabric.

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