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HD 922

An Act designating Diwali Day as a state holiday

194th Legislature (2025-2026) Introduced by Hannah Kane and 1 co-sponsor

Massachusetts would officially recognize Diwali as a state holiday, honoring the Hindu, Sikh, Jain, and Buddhist festival celebrated by significant state population.

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Bill Summary · HD 922

Legislative bill overview

HD 922 proposes to establish Diwali as an official state holiday in Massachusetts. The bill would designate a specific day (typically in October or November, following the lunar calendar) as "Diwali Day" for state recognition and observance.

Why is this important

Diwali is the major Hindu, Sikh, Jain, and Buddhist festival celebrated by hundreds of thousands of people in Massachusetts and millions nationwide. Official state holiday designation provides cultural recognition, may allow state employees flexibility for observance, and reflects the demographic diversity of the state's population.

Potential points of contention

  • Calendar complexity: Diwali's date varies annually based on the lunar calendar, creating administrative challenges for a fixed state holiday designation
  • Resource and precedent concerns: Critics may question whether designating holidays for specific religious or cultural groups sets a precedent requiring similar designations for other communities, or strains government resources
  • Secular state argument: Some may argue state holidays should remain secular or limited to national observances, while supporters counter that existing holidays like Christmas already reflect religious traditions

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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