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Hearing on recognizing Diwali and Bandi Chor Divas as legislatively recognized days
Summary
Senate Bill 6044 would designate the new-moon day of Kartik as the state's recognized day for Diwali and Bandi Chor Divas; sponsor Manka Dhingra and several community witnesses described cultural significance and urged inclusion.
Senate Bill 6044 would designate the new-moon day of Kartik as a legislatively recognized day for Diwali and the Sikh observance Bandi Chor Divas. Committee staff explained both observances often fall on the same date but are distinct holidays celebrated by different communities.
Sen. Manka Dhingra (45th Legislative District) described celebrating both observances and said recognition is about inclusion rather than creating a paid holiday. "This is not paid holidays, but employees may use personal time off to observe them," she said. Remote witnesses representing community organizations and residents testified in support, citing large community events and the value of cultural visibility in schools and civic life.
Testimony emphasized that recognition would not change leave policy but would publicly acknowledge celebrations observed by Hindu and Sikh communities in Washington. Staff recorded 26 pro and 7 con sign-ins not testifying; the committee closed the hearing on SB 6044 for consideration in future business.
