OLYMPIA – Legislation recognizing Diwali and Bandi Chhor Divas as non-legal holidays in Washington state was heard Tuesday in the Senate State Government, Tribal Affairs & Elections Committee.
Known as the “Festival of Lights,” Diwali is celebrated by more than a billion people around the globe, including Hindus, Sikhs, Buddhists, and Jains. The holiday marks the victory of light over darkness and good over evil, symbolized by the lighting of lamps and the renewal of faith and prosperity. Bandi Chhor Divas, observed by Sikhs, coincides with Diwali. It commemorates liberation, reflecting values of courage, justice, and selfless leadership. Together, these observances highlight shared themes of renewal, compassion, and unity.
“Senate Bill 6044 is about inclusion,” said Sen. Manka Dhingra (D-Redmond), the bill’s prime sponsor. “It’s about acknowledging our state’s religious and cultural diversity and making sure these holidays and our South Asian community are seen and respected.”
Diwali and Bandi Chhor Divas fall on the new moon day of the Hindu lunisolar month of Kartik, typically between October and November each year.
Washington state recognizes other cultural and religious observances, including Lunar New Year, and most recently, the Islamic holidays of Eid al-Fitr and Eid al-Adha. These days of recognition are not paid holidays, but employees may use personal paid time off to observe them.
Remarks from the hearing can be viewed and downloaded here.
Follow the bill’s progress here.
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