Muslim students in New York no longer have to worry about school on Eid

Change in calendars means schools will now remain closed on the two eids

NEW YORK: New York’s Mayor Bill de Blasio announced on Wednesday that schools in the city will now observe two Muslim holidays on Eidul Fitr and Eidul Azha, New York Times reported.

Schools in the city already observe a number of religious holidays including that of Christian and Jewish faiths.

Today we'll announce the addition of Eid al-Adha & al-Fitr to @NYCSchools holiday schedule, a change that respects the diversity of our city

— Mayor Eric Adams (@NYCMayor) March 4, 2015

Blasio, who had promised to include the two holidays in the school calendar as part of his election campaign, made the announcement at the Mary White Ovington School (PS/IS30) where 36 per cent of the students were absent the last time Eid al-Azha fell on an instructional day.

“We made a pledge to families that we would change our school calendar to reflect the strength and diversity of our city. Hundreds of thousands of Muslim families will no longer have to choose between honoring the most sacred days on their calendar or attending school. This is a common sense change, and one that recognises our growing Muslim community and honors its contributions to our City,” a statement released by the New York department of education quoted him.

"We as a city need to do more to deepen our connection to Muslim communities all over the city." - Mayor @BilldeBlasio.

— NYC Mayor's Office (@NYCMayorsOffice) March 4, 2015

Schools Chancellor Carmen Fariña said that the new addition will also “enable a teachable moment in the classroom for our students to learn about religious tolerance and the societal contributions of various cultures.”

With this change, New York’s schools join other school districts in states such as Vermont, Massachusetts, and New Jersey which close in observance of Muslim holidays.

Current school regulations in the state allowed students to be excused absence from school for their religious and cultural observances, though it still meant those children would miss classes.

"Private schools have to make their own decision, but I hope they will follow our lead." - Mayor @BilldeBlasio.

— NYC Mayor's Office (@NYCMayorsOffice) March 4, 2015

“With Muslim students representing nearly 10% of our overall public school enrollment, today's announcement is an important lesson in respecting and celebrating the great diversity of our City,” said the Executive Director of DC 37Henry Garrido.

Imam Talib Abdur-Rashid, President of the Islamic Leadership Council of Metropolitan New York, welcomed the move. “The Majlis Ash-Shura (Islamic Leadership Council) of Metropolitan New York welcomes this latest affirmation of the will and hope of Muslim New Yorkers, who continue during difficult times to claim our place in American society, by demanding equal rights and recognition for our faith community.”