Diwali is now a state holiday in Pennsylvania after Governor Josh Shapiro signed Senate Bill 402 into law while attending a Diwali, Tihar, and Bandi Chhor Diwas celebration hosted by the Governor’s Advisory Commission on Asian American & Pacific Islander Affairs in the atrium of the Keystone Building in downtown Harrisburg.
“By signing this bill into law, we are not only recognizing the importance of Diwali but also celebrating the rich cultural heritage and many contributions of the Asian American community to Pennsylvania,” said Governor Shapiro.
The legislation, sponsored by Senator Greg Rothman and Senator Nikil Saval, garnered broad bipartisan support in both the Senate and House. Representative Arvind Venkat championed companion legislation, House Bill 436, which passed in April 2023.
“Recognizing Diwali as an official state holiday celebrates our Commonwealth’s rich cultural diversity,” said Senator Rothman. “I’m grateful for Governor Shapiro’s signature on this historic legislation.”
“Wherever we’re from and whatever our background, all of us deserve to have our cultures recognized and honored. As the number of Asian Americans grows steadily here in Pennsylvania and across the country, our Commonwealth’s official recognition of Diwali sends a clear message of inclusion,” said Senator Saval. “I am so proud to have worked with my colleagues in the state legislature to put Pennsylvania at the forefront by acknowledging Diwali’s deep cultural significance and inviting all people to reflect on the endless struggle of light over darkness.”
