Governor Kathy Hochul has officially designated the Asian Lunar New Year as a public school holiday throughout New York State. With the signing of the bill on Sept 9, all public schools will remain closed annually on this day to honor the cultural significance of the holiday.
The Lunar New Year, a holiday celebrated by millions worldwide, particularly in Asia, signifies the first new moon of the lunar calendar. As the most important celebration in countries like China, festivities typically include spending quality time with family, indulging in traditional dishes, and decorating homes with vibrant red adornments.
The holiday’s date varies annually due to differences between lunar and Gregorian calendars, with the next celebration set for Feb. 10, 2024. Governor Hochul emphasized that this decision underscores the state’s appreciation for the Asian American and Pacific Islander (AAPI) community and offers students a chance to understand and cherish diverse cultural traditions.
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