HOLI DAY

104th Regular Session Introduced by Laura Ellman and 1 co-sponsor

Illinois designates March 5 as Holi Day to recognize Indian American culture and encourage inclusion and cross-cultural understanding statewide.

Pursuant to Senate Rule 3-9(b) / Referred to Assignments

Summary of SB/SR: SR0653 (104th General Assembly) – Illinois

Purpose and intent

To designate a specific state-recognized day in Illinois in honor of Holi, the traditional Indian festival of colors.

The resolution aims to promote cross-cultural understanding, inclusion, and mutual respect by recognizing Holi and encouraging celebration of Indian American contributions to Illinois.

Key provisions

Declaration: March 5, 32026 as Holi Day in the State of Illinois.

NOTE: The date appears to include a typographical error in the text (likely intended to read March 5, 2026). The resolution explicitly designates a single day for observance.

Encouragement to celebrate: The resolution urges Illinois residents to acknowledge and celebrate the rich traditions and enduring contributions of the Indian American community throughout the state.

Civic language: Emphasizes inclusion, mutual respect, and cross-cultural understanding as foundational goals of recognizing Holi.

Who/What is affected

The declaration primarily affects state symbolism and ceremonial recognition by the Illinois Senate.

It signals to state agencies, schools, organizations, and residents that Holi is culturally significant and worthy of recognition.

It may influence public events, cultural programming, and educational activities related to Holi by encouraging awareness and inclusion.

Procedural and timeline aspects

Legislative type: Senate Resolution (SR), not a bill proposing new law or fiscal changes.

Sponsorship: Co-sponsored by Senator Laura Ellman and Senator Ram Villivalam.

Immediate effect upon passage: The resolution would formally recognize Holi Day and encourage observance; there is no new mandate or funding requirement attached.

Dates: The key date cited is March 5 (with a notation that appears erroneous in the text as “32026”; likely intended to be a future year, e.g., 2026). The exact date may be clarified or corrected in the final official version.

Context and potential impact

Cultural significance: Highlights recognition of the Indian American community within Illinois, aligning with broader state goals of inclusion and diversity.

Public awareness: May lead to increased visibility of Holi through school events, cultural programs, and community celebrations.

No financial appropriation: The resolution does not authorize spending; it is symbolic in nature.

If you’d like, I can provide a side-by-side comparison with similar cultural observance resolutions or check the official text for any year/date corrections.