The community celebrates

According to the Hindu America Foundation, AB 268 encourages the State Board of Education to adopt a model curriculum guide for exercises related to Diwali to educate students about its significance, thereby promoting religious understanding and tolerance in schools. These additional provisions make the California legislation for Diwali the most robust and inclusive in the country.

Nishtha Raheja Goel of Golden State Diwali, who led a grassroots campaign to guide individuals on how to advocate for Diwali recognition at a local level to the state level, celebrated the passage of the Diwali Bill, stating, ” Woo Hoo!! Diwali Bill AB 268 passed! We have all been part of this historic moment!”

The campaign galvanized communities to achieve bipartisan support throughout its journey to the Governor’s desk. Their volunteers emailed the governor’s office with messages encouraging the passage of AB 268 to designate Diwali as a state holiday, while pointing out that California has the largest population of Indian Americans in the United States.

Spreading the word  

Goel urged the community to continue advocating for their culture and heritage by reaching out to schools and libraries to promote Diwali with authors and performing artists showcasing Indian culture, Q&As., and workshops on traditions like yoga, meditation, henna, and rangoli.

When AB 268 successfully passed both houses of the legislature. Kalra noted its cultural significance saying that AB 268 reflected California’s commitment to inclusivity. “In these uncertain times, Diwali, known as the festival of lights, reminds us of the enduring triumph of light over darkness and offers a much-needed message of hope.”

On X, Kalra posted “Diwali is in 2 weeks and will be an extra special one for all of us this year!”

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