As a resident of Manhasset, I am one of the thirty plus percent of Manhasset residents belonging to the Eastern Orthodox faith, including but not limited to Greek, Serbian, Russian, Cypriot, Ukranian, Ethiopian, Amenian, Egyptian. Our religious observance of Eastern Orthodox Good Friday often requires that we pull our children out of school, causing them to miss valuable instruction time. Eastern Orthodox Good Friday is a significant religious event, akin to many other public holidays recognized by our schools. 

Unfortunately, in the absence of formal recognition, our children are inadvertently disadvantaged by participating in this sacred tradition. The Manhasset area has a substantial Eastern Orthodox population, underscoring the importance of this petition, and making it a matter of equal treatment for our community.

We propose that the Manhasset Elementary, Middle, and High Schools officially acknowledge Eastern Orthodox Good Friday as a public holiday. This will not only respect the beliefs and traditions of a significant proportion of the community, but also ensure that our children do not miss out on any educational opportunities.

In the spirit of inclusivity, equality, and mutual respect for all belief systems, we urge the school district to act upon this petition. Sign this petition to voice your support for the recognition of Eastern Orthodox Good Friday as a public holiday in Manhasset schools.