Congressman Carson, Congresswoman Meng introduce Eid Days Act

WASHINGTON, DC—Today, in celebration of Eid al-Adha, Congressman André Carson (IN-07) announced the introduction of the Eid Days Act with Grace Meng (NY-06) to recognize Eid al-Adha and Eid al-Fitr as legal public holidays.

Eid al-Fitr was celebrated on April 10 this year and commemorates the sighting of the new moon, signifying a month-long end to fasting and reflection. Eid al-Adha commemorates Abraham’s symbolic sacrifice of his son to God -- as referenced in the Quran, Old Testament, and New Testament -- and marks the annual pilgrimage to Mecca, called Hajj. Eid is of great importance to the United States’ over 3.5 million Muslims and approximately 1.8 billion Muslims around the world.   

“Muslim Americans are part of the fabric of our country,” said Congressman Carson. “My bill is about recognizing and uplifting these important holidays, but I also hope it sends a clear message to all Muslim Americans – you belong, and our community values you. As millions of Muslims prepare to celebrate Eid al-Adha, this bill is a chance to promote inclusion and tolerance of all people and all religions – the bedrock of our American values.” 

“Eid is celebrated by millions of people in the United States and around the world, marking symbolic periods of the year in the Islamic faith,” said Congresswoman Grace Meng. “As Muslim Americans begin celebrating Eid al-Adha on June 16, I am proud to join my colleagues in introducing this long overdue effort to add Eid to the calendar of federal holidays. These joyful celebrations deserve national recognition for the millions of American families that gather to observe them.”

More information on the bill and a list of cosponsors can be found here.

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