US Congresswoman Grace Meng has reintroduced the Diwali Day Act, legislation aimed at declaring Diwali a federal holiday in the United States. The proposal seeks to recognise the contributions of Hindu, Sikh, Jain and Buddhist communities while sending a strong message against rising anti-Hindu and anti-South Asian hate.
Meng, chair of the Congressional Asian Pacific American Caucus (CAPAC), said recognising the Festival of Lights would affirm the place of these diverse communities in American society.
“Diwali represents the triumph of good over evil and knowledge over ignorance,” she said.
The legislation has been co-sponsored by 19 other lawmakers, including Indian-American representatives Ami Bera, Ro Khanna, Raja Krishnamoorthi, Suhas Subramanyam and Shri Thanedar.
The other co-sponsors are Nanette Barragán, Wesley Bell, André Carson, Judy Chu, Suzan DelBene, Josh Gottheimer, Timothy Kennedy, Stephen Lynch, Deborah Ross, Lateefah Simon, Tom Suozzi, Mark Takano, Rashida Tlaib and Bonnie Watson Coleman.
Highlighting concerns over religious discrimination, Meng said, “At a time when anti-Hindu and anti-South Asian hate is on the rise, recognizing Diwali as a federal holiday sends a powerful message that Hindus, as well as Sikhs, Jains, and Buddhists, are valued members of our society.”
The proposed legislation would amend Section 6103(a) of Title 5 of the US Code by adding “Diwali Day” to the list of legal public holidays. If approved, Diwali would become the country’s 12th federal holiday, according to Meng’s announcement.
Referring to the significance of the festival in her constituency, Meng said, “Here in Queens, I see firsthand how meaningful Diwali is to so many families and communities.”
She added that the Diwali Day Act would help educate Americans about the importance of the festival and promote a more inclusive nation that respects the cultural traditions of its people.
CAPAC has also raised concerns about religious intimidation and attacks targeting Hindu and South Asian communities. Its announcement cited vandalism at Hindu places of worship, an alleged mass-shooting plot targeting a Hindu gathering in Illinois and the recent disruption of a Diwali celebration in Washington state.
The caucus said these incidents should be taken seriously and investigated by federal authorities. While describing anti-Hindu and anti-South Asian hate as a growing concern, its statement did not provide statistical evidence to support the trend.
Meng’s office also listed endorsements from 17 civil rights, religious and community organisations in support of the proposal.
The congresswoman said federal recognition would provide communities with greater opportunities to celebrate Diwali and honour their cultural traditions. She has also separately proposed legislation to establish Lunar New Year as a federal holiday.
