We, the undersigned members of the Lawrence Township community — including parents, students, and residents — respectfully request that the Lawrence Township Public Schools Board of Education recognize Diwali, the Festival of Lights, as an official school holiday.

Every year, Diwali brings immense joy and unity to my life as it is the one day when I gather with family and friends, visiting each other and celebrating together. It holds incredible significance for many of us in Lawrence Township, and it is a time to rejoice, reflect, and foster our community values. We exchange gifts, decorate our homes with lights and rangoli, and share traditional meals. This celebration of the victory of light over darkness brings about an unmatched sense of community and belonging. Yet, I find it worrying that amidst all this joyous spirit, families are constrained by the responsibilities of school and work schedules.

The celebration of Diwali is not merely a personal affair; it represents profound cultural and religious meanings, especially for the Indian and Hindu communities who reside in Lawrence Township. A substantial portion of our student body shares this cultural heritage, and observing Diwali as a school holiday recognizes and respects their cultural roots, promoting inclusivity and diversity.

Neighboring schools, including several school districts in New Jersey and Pennsylvania, including those in Edison, South Brunswick, Piscataway, West Windsor–Plainsboro, and Garnet Valley (PA), have already acknowledged this cultural importance by observing Diwali as a school holiday. There is a precedence and a growing understanding of the value in allowing families to fully participate in festivities without the constraints of school time. 

Furthermore, the state permits schools to observe Diwali by granting them the flexibility to decide on school closures during cultural and religious observances. By not currently recognizing Diwali as a school holiday, we are missing an opportunity to support our culturally diverse students and their families.

I urge the Lawrence School District Board to reconsider the current school calendar and grant students this vital opportunity to celebrate Diwali. It will resonate deeply with many families in our community and honor the district's commitment towards cultural sensitivity and inclusiveness. We deeply value the district’s efforts to cultivate a welcoming and inclusive environment for every student. Adding Diwali to the school calendar would be an important and meaningful step toward that vision. Let us take this meaningful step forward so that all students can experience the full breadth of their cultural celebrations without restriction.

Please join me in asking for this needed change. Sign this petition to request the Lawrence School District to honor Diwali by officially making it a school holiday, ensuring all our students, families, and the community can embrace this significant festival together.