Senate Deputy Leader Gianaris Announces Support For Bill Making Lunar New Year A New York State School Holiday

ALBANY, N.Y. – Senate Deputy Leader Michael Gianaris announced his support for legislation making Lunar New Year (S.2351-A) a holiday for New York schools.

“New York’s growing Asian American communities enrich our state and contribute greatly to the strength of our diversity,” said Senate Deputy Leader Michael Gianaris. “As the child of immigrants, I know how important it is to have special cultural occasions observed by the state we call home. I am eager to make Lunar New Year part of the school calendar so even more families can have their important holidays recognized.”

Lunar New Year celebrates the beginning of the Lunar calendar and is celebrated among Asian communities.

“I am proud to champion school holidays for Lunar New Year and Diwali,” said U.S. Rep. Grace Meng (D-Queens). “I led the Lunar New Year bill when I served in the State Legislature and worked to establish a school holiday for Lunar New Year in New York City, and for years, I have pushed for schools to be closed for Diwali as well. In Congress, I am leading legislation to make Lunar New Year and Diwali federal holidays. I thank Deputy Leader Gianaris for announcing his support for the State Senate bills, and I look forward to their passage.”

New York City Council Member Shekar Krishnan, 25th District said, “Lunar New Year is a joyous time with family and friends for so many Chinese, Korean, Vietnamese, and other Asian New Yorkers. I’m proud to support Senator Gianaris’ efforts to establish Lunar New Year as a school holiday, and I’m excited that Asian children across the city will soon be able to officially enjoy this annual celebration without having to miss class."