Governor Ferguson signs bill recognizing Eid as a Washington state holiday at Tacoma mosque

TACOMA — Governor Ferguson signed a bill recognizing Eid as a Washington state holiday during a ceremony at the Islamic Center of Tacoma, praising the measure as a step toward inclusion and representation for Muslim residents.

"I'm a new governor. I've been on the job for just 2 and a half months," Ferguson said, describing signing bills as one of the most meaningful parts of the job and telling attendees that signing in a community setting adds special significance. "This is the first bill I'd ever signed, in the community," he said, later declaring, "With that, this bill has now become a law of the state of Washington." The bill number was not specified at the ceremony.

The governor framed the law as part of a broader effort to foster belonging and reduce discrimination, saying hate crimes and discriminatory policies are often "rooted in a fundamental misunderstanding of people who are perceived as different." He said the recognition gives Washingtonians an opportunity to learn more about "our Muslim neighbors, their culture, and our religion."

Ferguson thanked the legislative champions and staff who worked on the measure and pointed to staff contributions behind the scenes. He introduced Sahar, a member of his executive team, saying, "She is, we believe, the first Muslim to serve on the executive team for any governor in Washington state history."

At the event the governor handled ceremonial details — choosing pens and asking young people to join behind him for a signing photo — before completing the signature and presenting pens as mementos. The ceremony included an introduction of local leaders and a public photo opportunity.

The signing took place at the Islamic Center of Tacoma; the governor noted that, while bills are typically signed at the state capitol, conducting the ceremony at a mosque underscored the community aspect of the action. Senator Trudeau was present and mentioned during the remarks.

The transcript of the event does not include a bill number or citation for the law, and no legislative text or effective date was provided during the ceremony. There was also no formal vote reported at the event.

Following the signature, attendees posed for photographs and the event transitioned to informal remarks and thanks.