California bill recognizing 2 Islamic holidays nears Newsom’s desk
California could soon formally recognize two of Islam’s most important holy days under legislation that would give state workers greater flexibility to take them off and allow public schools to...
By Fox News · Fox News
California could soon formally recognize two of Islam’s most important holy days under legislation that would give state workers greater flexibility to take them off and allow public schools to close in observance of the holidays. The measure, which overwhelmingly passed the state Assembly and is awaiting Senate action, would recognize Eid al-Fitr and Eid al-Adha in state law and could soon head to Democratic Gov. Gavin Newsom’s desk. Assembly Bill 2017 , introduced by Democratic San Francisco Assemblymember Matt Haney, passed the Assembly 64-1 in late May. It must clear the Senate before the legislative session ends Monday to reach Newsom. TRUMP DOJ EXPANDS RELIGIOUS LIBERTY PROTECTIONS AFTER MAJOR SUPREME COURT RULINGS The bill would let state employees use existing paid holiday credits to take time off for Eid. Public schools and community colleges could also close for the holidays. "California is home to one of the largest and most vibrant Muslim communities in the country, and their traditions deserve recognition and respect," Haney said in a news release about the bill in March. "No student should have to choose between celebrating one of the holiest days of their faith and showing up to school, and no worker should feel they have to sacrifice their religious observance." Haney also said the bill is also about treating Muslim Californians equally. "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 said. Eid al-Fitr, or the "Festival of Breaking the Fast," marks the end of Ramadan, the Islamic holy month when Muslims fast from dawn to sunset. Eid al-Adha, or the "Festival of Sacrifice," commemorates the willingness of the Prophet Ibrahim (Abraham) to sacrifice his son in obedience to God. CALIFORNIA SCHOOL DISTRICT SUED OVER FIELD TRIP TO MOSQUE WHERE STUDENTS ALLEGEDLY DONNED MUSLIM GARB Supporters say the bill would make it easier for Muslim workers and students to…