California’s Recognition of Eid Holidays Advances in Legislation

California is considering legislation to recognize two significant Islamic holidays, Eid al-Fitr and Eid al-Adha, providing state workers more flexibility to take these days off and allowing public schools to close in observance.

Legislative Details

The measure, Assembly Bill 2017, introduced by San Francisco Assemblymember Matt Haney, passed the state Assembly with a 64-1 vote in late May. It is awaiting Senate approval before reaching Governor Gavin Newsom.

The bill allows state employees to utilize existing paid holiday credits for the Eids. Public schools and community colleges could also close in observance.

“California is home to one of the largest and most vibrant Muslim communities in the country, and their traditions deserve recognition and respect,” Haney stated in a March press release.

Equality and Inclusion

Haney stressed the bill’s role in ensuring Muslim Californians receive equal recognition.

“AB 2017 is about making sure Muslim Californians are seen, valued, and treated with the same dignity as every other community in our state,” he affirmed.

Eid al-Fitr marks the end of Ramadan, while Eid al-Adha commemorates the Prophet Ibrahim’s willingness to sacrifice his son in obedience to God.

Support and Opposition

Supporters, including CAIR’s California chapter, advocate for the bill, highlighting its importance for Muslim workers and students in observing their faith without professional or academic conflicts.

“For decades, Muslim families have had to navigate an unfair balancing act between their faith and their obligations,” Oussama Mokeddem, of CAIR California, stated in July.

Hala Hijazi, founder of the Muslim Impact Council, shared personal experiences, recalling missing Eid celebrations due to work commitments.

Conversely, the California Family Council opposes the provision for schools to hold exercises acknowledging the meanings of Eid. The group also criticized the option for a model curriculum guide.

“No California statute authorizes public schools to hold exercises celebrating the meaning of Christmas, Easter, or Good Friday,” the council noted in a May statement, pointing out perceived legal asymmetries.

State Precedents

If enacted, these holidays would join others like Lunar New Year and Diwali in California’s recognized holidays. Washington had already begun recognizing Eid holidays, but California’s proposal offers state workers use of paid holiday credits, unlike Washington’s allowance of unpaid time off.