Washington Lawmakers Propose Bill to Recognize Eid Holidays as State Holidays
Senate Bill 5106, sponsored by Sen. Yasmin Trudeau, D-Tacoma, and its companion legislation, House Bill 1432, sponsored by Rep. Osman Salahuddin, D-Redmond, seek to add these significant Islamic holidays to the state’s list of unpaid holidays, the Washington State Standard reported on Tuesday.
If passed, the legislation would allow employees to observe Eid al-Fitr and Eid al-Adha without using personal leave.
Eid al-Fitr marks the end of Ramadan, the holy month of fasting, while Eid al-Adha commemorates the willingness of the prophet Ibrahim (AS) to sacrifice his son in obedience to God. Both holidays hold deep spiritual and cultural significance for Muslims worldwide.
Read More:
“No Muslim wants to be in a position where we have to defend ourselves and our ability to practice our faith, it feels really bad,” Trudeau said during her testimony on the bill.
Washington is home to more than 100,000 Muslims, part of a larger community of nearly 3 million across the US and almost 2 billion globally.
The proposed legislation has garnered broad support, with nearly 40 co-sponsors across both chambers. Additionally, more than 300 individuals registered to testify in favor of the House bill, and over 1,000 signatures have been collected in support.
Read More:
The push for Eid recognition follows a trend of legislative measures that promote inclusivity. Last year, Washington recognized Lunar New Year as an unpaid holiday. Previous laws enacted in 2014 and 2019 ensured that employees and students could take time off for religious observances and that postsecondary institutions accommodate such absences.
Supporters of the bill emphasize that it reflects Washington’s commitment to religious freedom and cultural diversity. “We truly want peace to be upon every person no matter what faith they practice,” Trudeau stated.
Public consultation on the bill continues, with strong indications of bipartisan backing and community support.
Source: Agencies
