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New York City public school kids getting new Muslim, Lunar New Year holidays
New York City is moving to close school for two Muslim holidays and the Lunar New Year but Mayor de Blasio isnt so sure about the Hindu festival Diwali.Appearing on WNYCs Brian Lehrer Show on Monday, the mayor said he hadnt taken a position on whether Diwali, the festival of lights celebrated in India and other South Asian countries, should be a day off from school. But he said hed move forward with closing schools for Lunar New Year and for Eid al-Fitr and Eid al-Adha, Muslim holy days. It is complicated in terms of logistics and school calendar and budget. But its something I want to get done in a reasonable time frame, he said. A spokesman for the Indian community appealed to the mayor to recognize the Hindu holiday. We are disappointed. Weve been trying for a long time Its very important for the community, said Dr. Shashi Shah of the Association of Indians in America. Ethnic communities have pushed for all four holidays to be recognized. Former Mayor Bloomberg opposed the change, saying kids should not miss more school. Posted by: Beavis 2014-02-04 |
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