California officially recognises Eid al-Fitr, Eid al-Adha as state holidays

HAMILTON: The US state of California has officially recognised Eid al-Fitr and Eid al-Adha, the two major Islamic holidays, under a new law signed by Governor Gavin Newsom.

Assembly Bill 2017, signed into law on Sunday, adds the holidays to the official state holiday calendar, according to Anadolu Agency.

Eid al-Fitr marks the end of Ramadan, the Islamic month of fasting, while Eid al-Adha is celebrated during the annual Haj pilgrimage.

Public schools and community colleges may close for the two holidays through existing local procedures, while eligible state employees may also receive holiday credit for them.

"The designation of Eid al-Fitr and Eid al-Adha as state holidays is a civil calendar determination that acknowledges their cultural significance to California communities," the law stated. - BERNAMA