Washington is dwelling to greater than 100,000 Muslims who need to really feel seen, revered and included. But our two main non secular holidays — Eid al-Fitr and Eid al-Adha — had remained unrecognized by the state.
Too typically, Muslim college students should select between celebrating Eid or attending faculty occasions like commencement. Working adults wrestle to take day off or attend Friday prayers as a consequence of an absence of lodging. This isn’t nearly holidays — it’s about visibility, fairness and respect.
That’s why I launched Home Invoice 1434, alongside Senate Invoice 5106, to grant Eid official legislative recognition. This invoice doesn’t create new paid holidays; it merely acknowledges Eid as we do Lunar New Yr and different culturally important days.
Rising up, I hardly ever noticed my religion mirrored in lecture rooms or calendars. This invoice is for college students like my 15-year-old brother, who need to see their traditions revered in public life.
I’m honored to have Gov. Bob Ferguson’s help on this endeavor, as he signed SB 5106 into regulation Tuesday. Recognizing Eid sends a strong message: All communities matter.
We’re not asking for particular remedy — simply equal recognition.
State Rep. Osman Salahuddin, D-Redmond
