"To have South Asian children be able to proudly celebrate and share it with others is a significant moment,"
"The provisions that allow students to take the day off without repercussion and state employees to take paid leave are important leaps toward making Diwali truly accessible to those who celebrate,"
"Diwali, which falls on Oct. 20 this year, is derived from the word 'Deepavali,' which means 'a row of lights.' Celebrants light rows of lamps to symbolize the victory of light over darkness and knowledge over ignorance. The holiday is celebrated with festive gatherings, fireworks displays, feasts and"
"According to a 2025 Pew survey, 960,000 out of the nation's Indian population of 4.9 million - or 20% - live in California."
Governor Gavin Newsom signed a bill that designates Diwali as an official statewide holiday in California, effective Jan. 1. The law authorizes public schools and community colleges to close on Diwali, allows state employees to elect paid leave, and grants public school students an excused absence. The law recognizes that Diwali is also celebrated by Sikhs, Jains and Buddhists. Pennsylvania and Connecticut previously made Diwali a statewide holiday. The legislation was coauthored by Assemblymembers Ash Kalra and Darshana Patel and supported by Hindu American organizations and community advocates.
Read at ABC30 Fresno
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