New York city declares school holiday on November 1 to mark Diwali celebrations
The event will allow more than 1.1 million students to observe and celebrate the festival of lights.
PTC News Desk: In a much anticipated development, New York city has declared a school holiday on November 1 to mark Diwali festival, symbolising city's cultural diversity and inclusivity. The event will allow more than 1.1 million students to observe and celebrate the festival of lights.
“This year Diwali is special. For the first time in the history of New York City, schools will be closed on Friday, November 1 for the festival of Diwali,” said Deputy Commissioner, Mayor’s Office for International Affairs, New York City, Dilip Chauhan. Last year city's governor Kathy Hochul signed a legislation establishing Diwali as a public holiday in all the schools of New York.
Chauhan also highlighted the significance this decision holds for Indian diaspora noting how it brings families, friends, and neighbours together in celebration and unity, while fostering the deep bonds that characterise New York as one of the world’s most inclusive cities. “Of course, there were challenges, especially balancing the required instructional days. We had to make thoughtful adjustments to ensure all communities felt respected and supported,” he added.
To commemorate the India festival of lights, the tallest building of the United States, World Trade Centre was seen illuminating in radiant colours marking the celebrations for Diwali.
President Biden on Monday hosted a Diwali celebration at the White House which was attended by more than 600 eminent Indian Americans, including Congressmen, officials, and corporate executives, from across the country.