FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
April 21, 2023
Contact:
Jasmine Rivera jasmine@risingvoicesaaf.org
Co-Executive Director, Rising Voices
Rising Voices Applauds the Introduction of Bills to Recognize Lunar New Year, Eid al-Adha and Eid al-Fitr, Vaisakhi and Diwali
DETROIT, MI – Rising Voices issued the following statement on today’s introduction of House Bills 4446, 4447, 4448, and 4449 known as the “Religious and Cultural Holiday Expansion” bill package which establishes five new state holidays that are significant to the Asian American and religious communities. The statement can be attributed to Rising Voices Co-Executive Director Jasmine Rivera.
“We thank House Majority Floor Leader Representative Abraham Aiyash for introducing the bill to recognize Eid al-Adha and Eid al-Fitr (HB 4447); Representative Ranjeev Puri for his bills to recognize Vaisakhi (HB 4449) and Diwali (HB 4446); and Representative Sharon MacDonell for her bill to recognize Lunar New Year (HB 4448) as state holidays. These holidays are important religious and cultural events celebrated by the diverse Asian American communities in Michigan. Rising Voices is proud to have been part of the coalition to help draft these legislations with the help of community members who provided cultural guidance and perspective.
“Asian Americans are the fastest-growing demographic in Michigan with communities that celebrate the rich traditions of their families, contributing to the vibrant fabric of our state. Recognizing these holidays as official state holidays acknowledges the diversity and cultural significance of Asian Americans and provides an opportunity for all Michiganders to learn and participate in the joyous and meaningful celebrations of the Lunar New Year, Eid al-Adha and Eid al-Fitr, Vaisakhi, and Diwali across the state each year.
“The Michigan Legislature can send a powerful message of equity, unity, and solidarity with its Asian American communities by passing this bill package swiftly in its entirety.”
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Rising Voices, a project of the Center for Empowered Politics, is a nonprofit 501(c)(4) organization that seeks to increase the civic participation of Asian Americans in Michigan by developing the leadership, organizing, and power-building capacity of Asian American women, youth and communities. www.risingvoicesaaf.org