AB 2596, a bill introduced by Assemblymember Evan Low (D-Silicon Valley) to make Lunar New Year Day a state holiday, passed through the State Assembly 65-0.

SACRAMENTO, CA — AB 2596, a bill introduced by Assemblymember Evan Low (D-Silicon Valley) to make Lunar New Year Day a state holiday, passed through the State Assembly 65-0.

“I am proud to introduce AB 2596 establishing Lunar New Year as a holiday in California which is home to the largest Asian American population in the United States.  Lunar New Year is a cultural celebration for Asian Americans who are the fastest-growing demographic in the nation. Recognizing Lunar New Year as a state holiday would be deeply meaningful for millions of Californians,” said Assemblymember Low.

In January 2022, Congresswoman Grace Meng (D-NY), Vice-Chair of the Congressional Asian Pacific American Caucus, announced that she has introduced new legislation to credit a federal holiday for Lunar New Year. Congresswoman Meng’s measure would add Lunar New Year to the list of eleven federal holidays that are currently recognized, including Thanksgiving Day and Christmas Day.

With the universal message of recurring renewal and community togetherness, Lunar New Year is a staple to Asian and Asian-American culture and celebrated by over two-thirds of Asian Americans from China, Vietnam, South Korea, and Malaysia.

During the traditional celebration, family and loved ones spend time together and share blessings with one another. Many non-Asian Americans also participate in celebratory festivals and gatherings as well as demonstrating solidarity.

With the continuous growth of anti-Asian hate violences, recognizing Lunar New Year as a state holiday would not only be encouraging to Asian American communities but would also send a powerful message that California continues to lead and demonstrate inclusion.