The New York Democrat’s Diwali Day Act would make the religious Festival of Lights America’s 12th federal holiday and provide federal workers another day off.
Rep. Grace Meng and 19 fellow lawmakers want to add Diwali to America’s federal holiday calendar. The New York Democrat reintroduced the Diwali Day Act on Nov. 9, seeking national recognition and a day off for federal employees.
Meng’s official announcement frames the proposal as a response to anti-Hindu and anti-South Asian hate. Diwali, the Festival of Lights, holds religious significance for Hindu, Sikh, Jain and Buddhist communities.
The bill text would insert “Diwali Day” into the federal holiday statute, immediately after Columbus Day. Meng’s office said it would become the country’s 12th federal holiday.
Supporters include Reps. Ro Khanna, Shri Thanedar, Rashida Tlaib, Josh Gottheimer, Ami Bera and Suhas Subramanyam.
“My Diwali Day Act will help educate Americans about the importance of this day, and I will continue working to create a more inclusive nation that honors the rich cultural traditions of its people,” Meng said.
Her earlier 2023 proposal never advanced beyond committee. The new measure still requires congressional passage and the president’s signature to become law.
Meng also sponsors legislation to make Lunar New Year a federal holiday.
