Congresswoman Grace Meng pushes for Diwali to become a federal holiday in the US

In a bid to celebrate the cultural significance of Diwali and acknowledge the contributions of millions of Americans from various faiths, Congresswoman Grace Meng has introduced the Diwali Day Act in the US House of Representatives. The act seeks to declare Diwali a federal holiday in the country, allowing people of all backgrounds to understand and embrace the holiday's essence.

Representing New York's Sixth Congressional District, Meng expressed her commitment to ensuring that American holidays align with those celebrated within diverse communities. The proposed legislation, introduced in May, has garnered positive feedback from colleagues in Congress and is considered a bipartisan initiative.

The congresswoman emphasized that beyond merely designating a day off, the federal recognition of Diwali would serve as a testament to the cultural richness and contributions made by Indian Americans. The Indian American community, which constitutes one of the largest Asian American populations in the country, has made significant contributions to New York, New York State, and the US as a whole, enriching various aspects of American life.

Meng cited the example of the state of New York, which has taken steps to make Diwali a school holiday, as an encouraging move. She revealed that the fight for federal recognition of Diwali as a holiday has been ongoing for over a decade, and the legislation aims to build on the momentum generated by state-level initiatives.

Regarding Indian Prime Minister's recent visit and speech to a joint session of Congress, Meng highlighted the positive reception and bipartisan embrace of his presence. She stressed the importance of the strong alliance between India and the United States, emphasizing the significance of fostering collaboration and partnership between the two nations in various domains.

With ongoing efforts to strengthen the relationship between India and the US, the Diwali Day Act serves as an opportunity to celebrate the diversity and cultural vibrancy of American society, fostering a sense of unity and inclusivity among its citizens. As discussions continue, Meng remains optimistic about the legislation's progress, hoping for broader acknowledgment and support for Diwali as a federal holiday.