Adeel Malik
Alhamdulilah. A bill proposing the recognition of Eid as an official holiday in California has been signed into law, allowing workers to use existing paid leave to observe the holidays as reported by Yahoo News.
The bill, AB 2017, formally recognizes the Islamic holidays Eid al-Fitr and Eid al-Adha in California statute as of Sept. 10. Allah reminds us in the Quran 16:53
“And whatever of blessings and good things you have, it is from Allah.”
It was introduced to Gov. Newsom by Assembly member Matt Haney with the partnership of several Muslim communities and organizations earlier this March.
“California is home to one of the largest and most vibrant Muslim communities in the country, and their traditions deserve recognition and respect,”
Haney said in a press release. “Recognizing Eid in state law is an important step toward ensuring every Californian can celebrate their holidays with their families without being forced to make unnecessary sacrifices.”
The passing of AB 2017 not only provides formal state recognition for both Eid holidays, but grants schools and public workplaces the tools necessary to help participants practice their faith without falling to obligatory career and academic barriers.
California holds the second-largest Muslim population in the United States, following New York. Muslims make up roughly 1.3% of California’s total population, with an estimated Muslim population of over 504,000 according to formal religious census data
“AB 2017 reflects the Commission’s shared commitment to a California where our public institutions recognize and respect the communities they serve,” said California Commission on Asian and Pacific Islander American Affairs Chairman Jason Paguio in the release.
“By formally recognizing Eid al-Fitr and Eid al-Adha, our state affirms the cultural significance of these observances while giving schools and public workplaces practical tools to support those who celebrate them.”
