New York: New York City’s recognition of Diwali as an official public school holiday marks a historic moment for the South Asian community in the United States.
New York State Assemblymember Jenifer Rajkumar led the campaign to establish Diwali as a school holiday, a cause championed by community members for more than two decades.
In June 2023, the New York State Legislature passed legislation designating Diwali as a holiday for New York City public schools. Governor Kathy Hochul signed the bill into law in November 2023.
The decision allows students celebrating the Festival of Lights to observe the occasion with their families without having to choose between their religious traditions and attending school.
Rajkumar, the first Hindu American woman elected to New York State office, worked alongside New York City Mayor Eric Adams to turn the long-standing demand into reality. The initiative recognises Diwali’s cultural and religious significance for Hindu, Sikh, Jain and Buddhist communities.
They told me it was impossible. 🪔
New Yorkers waited decades.But I led the fight to make Diwali a NYC school holiday…and we won!
This is my Diwali gift to the world.
We showed that Hindus, Buddhists, Sikhs and Jains are part of the American story.
#HappyDiwali New York! https://t.co/y3z2Q1X9x3
— Jenifer Rajkumar (@JeniferRajkumar) October 23, 2026
Sharing her achievement on X, Rajkumar described the victory as her Diwali gift to the world, emphasising that these communities are an integral part of the American story.
The decision represents more than a school holiday, marking a milestone in cultural recognition and inclusion. It acknowledges the contributions of South Asian and Indo-Caribbean communities to New York City’s diverse social fabric.
