In a landmark decision underscoring Washington state’s commitment to religious inclusivity, Governor Bob Ferguson signed legislation on Monday officially recognizing the Islamic holidays Eid al-Fitr and Eid al-Adha as state-observed holidays.
The ceremonial bill signing took place at the Islamic Center of Tacoma, marking the passage of Senate Bill 5106 and its companion House Bill 1434. These bills were sponsored by Sen. Yasmin Trudeau (D-Tacoma) and Rep. Osman Salahuddin (D-Redmond), respectively.
Although the new law does not designate Eid al-Fitr or Eid al-Adha as paid state holidays, it establishes them as recognized observances within the state calendar. This change aligns the Islamic celebrations with other culturally and religiously significant days already acknowledged by Washington, offering formal recognition to the state’s growing Muslim population—estimated at over 100,000 residents.
The legislation arrives at a time when national reports continue to highlight systemic discrimination against Muslim Americans, including disproportionately high rates of bullying among Muslim students and rising Islamophobia in public life. State lawmakers emphasized that this measure is a vital gesture of equity and respect.
“Recognition is not special treatment—it’s equal treatment,” said Rep. Salahuddin, reflecting on the legislation’s broader significance for young Muslims seeking visibility and validation in public life.
Sen. Trudeau echoed the sentiment, noting that the bill aims to foster a deeper sense of community and inclusion across diverse religious backgrounds in Washington.
Governor Ferguson’s signature places Washington among a small but growing number of states acknowledging Eid al-Fitr and Eid al-Adha through legislative action, reinforcing efforts to expand cultural understanding and support for minority religious communities.
