US state recognizes Muslim holidays Eid al-Fitr, Eid al-Adha as official holidays

The US state of California has officially recognized Eid al-Fitr and Eid al-Adha, the two major Islamic holidays, under a new law signed by Gov. Gavin Newsom.

Assembly Bill 2017, signed into law Sunday, adds the holidays to the official state holiday calendar.

Eid al-Fitr marks the end of Ramadan, the Islamic month of fasting. Eid al-Adha is celebrated during the annual Hajj pilgrimage.

Public schools and community colleges may close for the two holidays through existing local procedures. Eligible state employees may also receive holiday credit for the holidays.

"The designation of Eid al-Fitr and Eid al-Adha as state holidays is a civil calendar determination that acknowledges their cultural significance to California communities," according to the law.