DETROIT, MI - Rising Voices, Michigan’s first 501(c)(4) Asian American advocacy organization, applauds the passage in the Michigan House of the “Religious and Cultural Holiday Expansion” bill package. The bills establish seven new state holidays that are significant to Asian Americans and religious communities: Eid al-Adha, Eid al-Fitr, Vaisakhi, Diwali, Lunar New Year, Rosh Hashanah, and Yom Kippur.
Rising Voices commends the legislators who introduced and championed these bills earlier this year: House Majority Floor Leader Representative Abraham Aiyash introduced the bill to recognize Eid al-Adha and Eid al-Fitr (HB 4447); Representative Ranjeev Puri introduced the bills to recognize Vaisakhi (HB 4449) and Diwali (HB 4446); and Representative Sharon MacDonell for her bill to recognize Lunar New Year (HB 4448); Representative Noah Arbit for his bill to recognize Rosh Hashanah (HB 4544); and Representative Samantha Steckloff for her bill to recognize Yom Kippur (HB 4545).
“The official state recognition of traditions and holidays celebrated by Michigan Asian Americans will be a historic step to honor the rich cultural heritage and history of our communities, signaling to all inclusivity and welcome. We hope this will spark thoughtful conversations on how we can observe and celebrate the traditions of all our neighbors and friends,” said Jasmine Rivera, co-executive director of Rising Voices. “With their vote, the House has sent a powerful message of unity and solidarity with Asian Americans, the fastest growing population in the state. Now, it’s time for the Senate to do their part.”
Rising Voices urges the Michigan Senate to take up the legislative package in this session and send it to Governor Gretchen Whitmer’s desk for signing so Michigan can proudly celebrate our new state holidays in 2024.
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