NYC schools close Friday to honor Diwali

New York City schools have been authorized to close on Friday to honor Diwali, the Festival of Lights, marking the first time in history that the holiday will be officially observed in the city’s educational calendar.

This milestone is the result of tireless advocacy led by New York State Assemblywoman Jenifer Rajkumar.

Reflecting on this achievement, Rajkumar stated, “I am proud to have led and won this historic fight. With the passing of my Diwali School Holiday legislation, we came together as a state to speak with one voice and enshrine Diwali into law as a School Holiday.”

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This legislative victory signifies more than just a day off for students; it represents a lasting change that will impact generations. “This is a momentous achievement that will outlast even me. Generations of New Yorkers to come will now observe Diwali, the Festival of Lights. We have lit an everlasting lamp in the hearts and minds of all New Yorkers,” Rajkumar added.

The South Asian and Indo-Caribbean communities, which have been advocating for this recognition for over two decades, can now celebrate this acknowledgment of their cultural significance. The holiday will honor more than 600,000 Hindu, Sikh, Buddhist, and Jain Americans who contribute to the vibrant mosaic of New York City. “We proudly say that Diwali is not just a holiday—it is an American holiday, and the South Asian community is part of the American story,” Rajkumar emphasized.

Diwali, a celebration of the victory of light over darkness and knowledge over ignorance, encourages individuals to “turn on the light within ourselves and spread that light across the world.” This sentiment resonates strongly in a city known for its diversity and inclusivity.

Rajkumar expressed her gratitude to the coalition members who supported this vision, stating, “I thank each and every one of the coalition members who believed the Diwali holiday was possible. People thought that this day would never come, but here we are. To all who believed in the possible against all odds, no matter where you are, this victory belongs to you.”

As New York City prepares to celebrate Diwali as an official school holiday, this historic moment stands as a testament to the power of community, perseverance, and the enduring spirit of unity.