I am a teacher in New York City, faced with an impossible choice this year on Orthodox Good Friday. This day, which falls on May 3rd this year, is a Holy Day of obligation for me and many others. Yet, if we choose to observe it, we risk losing pay or a day off.

Orthodox Christians in the United States number approximately 1 million (Pew Research Center), with a significant portion residing in New York City. Many of these individuals are educators like myself who are forced to choose between their faith and their profession each year the Easter holidays fall separate from each other.

We call upon the Department of Education to recognize Orthodox Good Friday as an excused absence for teachers without any penalties such as loss of Compensation Absence Reserve (CAR) days or pay deductions. This change would not only respect religious diversity but also prevent teachers from having to make such difficult choices.

FURTHER, the Department of Education should make this day an official calendar holiday so students and their families may observe this Holy day without disrupting the education of students. 

In our city that values diversity and inclusivity, it's essential that all religious observances be respected equally. We urge you to consider this change not just for us but also for future educators and students who may find themselves facing the same dilemma.

Please sign this petition urging the Department of Education to allow teachers leave on Orthodox Good Friday without penalty.