New York City: Diwali, the festival of lights, is celebrated with great gusto in India, but New Yorkers will now double their enthusiasm following Mayor Eric Adams’ announcement. The mayor announced on Monday that Diwali would now be celebrated as a school holiday in New York City. Every year thousands of people celebrate this festival to commemorate the victory of light over darkness. Mayor Eric Adams’ announcement comes after state lawmakers recently enacted legislation declaring America’s largest school system a holiday.
Adams calls the moment a significant victory for local families
Mayor Adams described the moment on Twitter as a significant victory for local families. “I’m so proud to stand with Assembly Member Jennifer Prince and community leaders in the fight to make Diwali a school holiday. I know it’s a little early in the year, but: Happy Diwali!” the mayor wrote on Twitter.
New holiday to replace “Brooklyn-Queens Day”
The mayor further stated that he is confident that Governor Cathy Hochul will sign the bill. According to a report in ANI, the measure is yet to be signed into law by the governor. The new holiday will replace “Brooklyn-Queens Day” on the school holiday calendar.
New York State Assemblywoman Jennifer Rajkumar tweeted, “My press conference with @NYCmayor at City Hall today. I am proud to have led and won the fight to make Diwali a school holiday with Mayor Eric Adams.”
“New York is Made for Everyone”
Speaking to The New York Times, Adams said that the moment shows that “you are a part of this city and you are not considered an outsider.” Adams said, “Now we’re saying that New York is made for everybody.” “No matter where you come from.”
there’s a catch this year
In 2023 (this year) the festival will be celebrated on Sunday, 12 November, so for the first time in 2024 there will be a day off from school.
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