California recognizes Eid al-Fitr and Eid al-Adha as state holidays

California Governor Gavin Newsom has signed Assembly Bill 2017 into law, officially recognizing Eid al-Fitr and Eid al-Adha as state holidays. This makes California the second U.S. state, following Washington, to implement such statewide recognition for these two major Muslim holidays.

The legislation allows public schools and community colleges the option to close during these observances through local procedures, and student absences for these reasons are considered excused. Eligible state employees may also utilize existing leave or personal time to observe the holidays. However, the law does not mandate that all businesses close, nor does it require the closure of courts.

The move has drawn mixed reactions. Supporters highlight the importance of recognizing the cultural and religious significance of these holidays for California’s large Muslim community, which exceeds one million people. Conversely, critics have expressed concerns regarding the prioritization of certain religious observances over others, such as Jewish holidays, and have debated the implications for religious neutrality in state institutions.