We deeply appreciate how America brings people of all backgrounds together. Being American means standing for basic fairness, mutual respect, and the freedom for everyone to practice their faith without fear. When one community thrives, we all thrive. Together, we should all see fairness, especially when it comes to hard-working citizens and students who want to honor their most sacred traditions.

Right now in Georgia, many young Muslim people and legal workers of various backgrounds face an unfair, stressful choice between their daily duties and their faith. Every year during major holy days like Eid, young Muslim students are forced to worry about missing important exams, while dedicated workers face intense anxiety trying to secure time off just to be with their families. Other major religions in our state already automatically enjoy the freedom and structural protection to celebrate their sacred holidays without career or academic penalties. Georgia’s growing Muslim community deserves that same peace of mind. This isn't about asking for special treatment; it is about extending basic American fairness to everyone who puts their time into building our state.

Currently, Georgia officially recognizes 13 state holidays every year State Holiday. While these days automatically protect time off for families of some faiths, neighbors of other backgrounds receive zero structural accommodations. Numerous states, including California and Washington, have already successfully passed laws to fix this gap. By granting K-12 students excused school absences and offering state workers the standard flexibility needed to observe their highest holy days, Georgia can protect true religious freedom without disrupting schools or businesses.

We earnestly call upon Governor-Elect Keisha Lance Bottoms and the Georgia State Legislature to take this common-sense step toward true religious liberty and family inclusion. Let’s ensure every Georgia resident feels valued and respected. Stand with us in protecting family values and advocating for fairness for all communities in Georgia. Please, sign this petition to make holiday flexibility a reality in our state.