HOME | Diwali Holiday NYC

Governor Hochul Lights the Path:

Diwali Now a NYC
School Holiday

“Arise! Awake! And stop not until the
goal is reached”
- Swami Vivekananda

Jenifer Rajkumar did the same. The first South Asian-American woman elected to a state office in New York has fervently championed this cause. With the formal recognition of Diwali, the largest school district in the nation has finally truly embraced it as an American holiday.

Bringing lights among the Indian American community in New York, Governor Kathy Hochul has signed legislation designating Diwali as a school holiday for public schools in the city. The law mandates the closure of all New York City public schools on the fifteenth day of the eighth month of the Indian calendar, celebrated as Diwali. With over 1 million students in the city's school system, this move recognizes the cultural diversity within New York and offers an opportunity for children to learn about global traditions. In a momentous gesture, Governor Kathy Hochul has etched history into the cultural narrative of New York City's public education system. The resonant stroke of her pen has not merely designated Diwali as a holiday, but has also gracefully woven the Festival of Lights into the very fabric of the city's scholastic calendar. Against the urban backdrop of diversity and dynamism, Governor Hochul's proclamation is a dignified acknowledgment of the manifold religious and cultural tapestry that colors the city.

It is not a mere legislative maneuver; it is a reflective pause, recognizing and celebrating the myriad traditions that thread through the city's diverse cultural fabric. A solemn commitment to cultural recognition, Diwali is not just acknowledged; it is honored, signifying a nuanced understanding of the city's cultural complexities. Opening a gateway for students to explore traditions that traverse borders, it is an embodiment of the city's commitment to foster cultural awareness among its future leaders. Diwali stands as a testament to the rich diversity represented by more than 200,000 New Yorkers from Hindu, Buddhist, Sikh, Jain, and other faiths too. Over a million students in the city's educational realm comprising diverse backgrounds will now experience a day of cultural pause.

In short, with Jenifer Rajkumar's long initiative along with Governor Kathy Hochul, New York State Senator Joseph Addabbo and others, Diwali, henceforth will be celebrated as the Festival of Lights, fostering a sense of shared cultural heritage. Beyond the spectrum of cultural festivities, it in fact signifies a stride towards inclusivity and acknowledgment, echoing the community's impact and diversity within the vibrant socio-cultural fabric of New York. Also heartfelt appreciation extends to Dr. Dipak Nandi, whose unwavering support proved instrumental in the bill getting approved. His dedication and advocacy played a pivotal role, making this cultural milestone possible and underscoring the significance of collaborative efforts in shaping a more inclusive future for New York.

Drawing inspiration from Neil Armstrong's iconic words during the moon landing, "this step may be small for New York but marks a giant leap for every Indian American across the nation."

ABOUT KATHY HOCHUL

Kathy Hochul's journey is deeply rooted in the blue-collar ethos of Buffalo, where she was born and raised in an Irish Catholic family. Growing up, she witnessed her parents' resilience, with her mother raising six children and her father working in a steel plant by day while pursuing education at night. These experiences forged a commitment to public service and a determination to make a meaningful impact.

Her path to public service began at Syracuse University, where she became a student organizer and activist. Kathy then embarked on a career in law and public policy, serving as a legislative assistant to Sen. Daniel Patrick Moynihan. Her commitment to the community led her to the Hamburg Town Board, and later, she became Erie County Clerk.

In 2011, Kathy entered national politics, winning a seat in the U.S. House of Representatives as a Democrat representing Western New York. During her tenure in Congress, she played a crucial role in safeguarding healthcare, voting against efforts to defund Medicare and repeal the Affordable Care Act.

Elected as Lieutenant Governor of New York State in 2014 and subsequently re-elected in 2018, Kathy Hochul tirelessly worked to represent all New Yorkers. Her commitment was evident in her annual visits to all 62 counties; ensuring diverse voices had a seat at the table.

In the face of unprecedented challenges as Governor, Kathy Hochul took decisive action to provide relief to working families and businesses, combat the pandemic, and drive economic recovery. She has also championed reproductive rights, climate change initiatives, and a comprehensive agenda for equity and opportunity in New York.

With the recent historic move to make Diwali a school holiday in New York City public schools signifies her dedication to embracing and celebrating the cultural diversity of the state, Kathy not only reflects her commitment to fostering inclusivity but understanding among New Yorkers, making a lasting impact on education and cultural recognition.

ABOUT JENIFER RAJKUMAR

Assemblywoman Jenifer Rajkumar stands as a trailblazer, making history as the first South Asian-American woman elected to a state office in New York. A distinguished lawyer and professor, she earned her credentials from Stanford Law School and the University of Pennsylvania, solidifying her national recognition for legislative achievements focused on enhancing living standards and advocating for public safety.

Representing District 38 of New York as an Assembly member, Jenifer's commitment to empowering communities is evident in her instrumental role in passing crucial legislation, including the establishment of New York State's inaugural Asian American & Pacific Island Commission. With a keen focus on social justice and cultural reforms, she embodies the spirit of a dedicated community activist.

Recently, Jenifer Rajkumar has left an indelible mark by leading the charge to make Diwali a school holiday for all the New York City’s public schools. Her historic efforts underscore a commitment to inclusivity, fostering a deeper understanding of cultural diversity, and acknowledging the significance of Diwali for over 600,000 Hindu, Sikh, Jain, Buddhist and from other faith New Yorkers. In championing this cause, she has contributed to shaping a more culturally aware and inclusive educational landscape in New York for all.