Nevada took a significant step toward cultural inclusivity as a bill to formally recognize Diwali, Eid al-Fitr, Vaisakhi, and Vesak as official days of observance had its first hearing on February 27. The bill, AB82, is sponsored by Reuben D’Silva, an Indian American Assemblyman who represents East and North Las Vegas.
D’Silva, a former US Marine and public school teacher, has been a strong advocate for education and immigrant communities. Born to Indian immigrant parents, he has dedicated his legislative work to promoting diversity, economic opportunity, and social equity in Nevada.
D’Silva shared the news on social media, emphasizing the importance of the bill: “A powerful show of community and testament! NV Assembly Bill 82 will add Diwali, Eid al-Fitr, Vaisakhi, and Vesak to our state’s official days of observance. Adherents of these traditions number in the billions worldwide and represent one of the fastest-growing populations in Nevada. Recognizing these important celebrations is a meaningful step towards making Nevada more inclusive and welcoming for all who call it home.”
The bill mandates that the Governor of Nevada issue annual proclamations designating four cultural and religious observance days:
- Diwali Day (celebrated on the fifteenth day of the eighth month in the Hindu calendar)
- Eid al-Fitr Day (observed on the first day of the tenth month in the Islamic calendar)
- Vaisakhi Day (celebrated on the first day of the month of Vaisakh in the Sikh calendar)
- Vesak Day (commemorated on the first full moon in May, also known as Buddha Day)
Under the bill, the Governor’s proclamation for each observance will encourage media outlets, educators, business and labor leaders, and government officials to highlight the cultural significance and contributions of Hindu, Muslim, Sikh, and Buddhist communities in Nevada and beyond.
The legislation amends Chapter 236 of the Nevada Revised Statutes (NRS) and will take effect immediately upon passage and approval.
AB82 has received widespread support from various community organizations, including the Hindu American Foundation, which praised the move in a statement on X (formerly Twitter). “A bill introduced by Indian American Nevada state legislator @ReubenDSilvaNV, NV AB82, would have Nevada proclaim Diwali Day and Vaisakhi Day, among other holidays, each year going forward. Thank you for recognizing the aspirations of so many Nevadans!” the organization wrote.
