California officially recognizes two Islamic holidays
California officially recognizes two Islamic holidays
2026-10-02
Shafaq News – California
The US state of California has officially recognized the Islamic holidays of Eid al-Fitr and Eid al-Adha as legally recognized holidays and their celebration in schools and workplaces, without disrupting operations in these institutions.
Governor Gavin Newsom signed Law No. 2017 on September 27, allowing public schools and community colleges to close during the holidays, subject to local agreements and established negotiation procedures.
According to the text of the law published on the California Legislature’s website, eligible employees can use personal vacation credits or available leave to celebrate the two occasions, without this meaning that all employees will automatically be given two additional vacation days.
The two holidays do not require schools, government offices, or private companies to close, as arrangements for suspending studies remain subject to local decisions and relevant agreements.
The law also excludes Eid al-Fitr and Eid al-Adha from judicial holidays, and therefore their inclusion in the state calendar does not result in the courts being closed.
The legislation aims to facilitate holiday and absence planning, reduce conflicts between academic and professional schedules and celebrations, while maintaining the continuity of public services.
The Council on American-Islamic Relations in California welcomed the law, saying it addresses difficulties faced by Muslim students and employees when choosing between participating in religious ceremonies and committing to study or work.
The council explained that the legislation allows state employees and educational institutions to celebrate by using their available vacation credits, and also allows for the closure of public schools and community colleges under local agreements.
Washington State had previously approved the recognition of Eid al-Fitr and Eid al-Adha in 2025.
The governor’s office explained at the time that the decision adds the two occasions to the list of recognized days, but does not make them paid holidays.
shafaq.com
