Sunday, December 22, 2024

US Congress Bill to designate Diwali as federal holiday

 

The bill, known as the Diwali Day Act, was introduced in the House of Representatives on May 26

A bill has been introduced in the US Congress by Congresswoman Grace Meng, a prominent American lawmaker, to designate Diwali, the festival of lights, as a federal holiday. This initiative has received a positive reception from various communities nationwide, reported nriaffairs.com.

During a virtual news conference in Washington, Congresswoman Grace Meng emphasised the significance of Diwali, stating that it held immense importance for billions of people worldwide, as well as numerous families and communities in Queens, New York, and the United States. The bill, known as the Diwali Day Act, was introduced in the House of Representatives on May 26.

Congresswoman Meng views her Diwali Day Act as a step towards educating all Americans about the importance of this day and embracing the full spectrum of American diversity. She looks forward to guiding the bill through Congress

If the Diwali Day Act is passed by Congress and signed into law by the President, it would establish Diwali as the 12th federally recognised holiday in the United States. Congresswoman Meng expressed that recognising Diwali as a federal holiday and providing a day off would enable families and friends to celebrate together. Furthermore, it would reflect the government’s acknowledgement of the diverse cultural fabric of the nation.

Meng also pointed out the vibrant Diwali celebrations in Queens, emphasising the day’s significance for numerous individuals. She stated that America’s strength came from the diverse experiences, cultures, and communities that constitute the nation.

Congresswoman Meng views her Diwali Day Act as a step towards educating all Americans about the importance of this day and embracing the full spectrum of American diversity. She looks forward to guiding the bill through Congress.

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Roma Ghosh
Roma Ghosh
Roma Ghosh has recently retired as Associate Professor for Media Studies from an international university. She was with the Times of India as a correspondent for many years. Her passion is cooking and she has been doing recipes and photo shoots for Women's Era for the last 15-odd years.

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