OLYMPIA — In a historic moment for religious inclusion and cultural recognition, Governor Bob Ferguson signed Senate Bill 5106 into law this evening during a community celebration at the Islamic Center of Tacoma. The new law officially recognizes the Muslim holidays Eid al-Fitr and Eid al-Adha in Washington.
The bill was sponsored by Sen. Yasmin Trudeau (D-Tacoma), the only Muslim member of the State Senate, with companion legislation—House Bill 1434—introduced by Rep. Osman Salahuddin (D-Redmond), the sole Muslim serving in the Legislature’s other chamber.
“This legislation is about more than just a date on the calendar,” said Rep. Salahuddin. “It’s about fostering respect, visibility, and inclusion for a community that has too often been overlooked.”
Eid al-Fitr and Eid al-Adha are two of the most significant holidays in Islam, celebrated by millions globally and by over 100,000 Muslim Washingtonians. Until now, however, these holidays have not been officially recognized by the state, often forcing students and working adults to choose between observing their faith and meeting academic or professional responsibilities.
The newly signed law does not establish additional paid holidays but adds both Eid holidays to the state’s list of recognized observances—similar to existing recognitions such as Lunar New Year, Juneteenth, and Water Safety Day.
“Too many Muslim students have had to miss milestone events like graduation or face academic penalties simply for observing their faith,” said Salahuddin. “This bill gives them—and our entire community—visibility and dignity.”
The push for recognition comes amid rising concerns about discrimination against Muslim Americans. Recent reports show that more than 50% of Muslim students in some states have faced bullying, while nearly 40% of Muslim adults report heightened discrimination in the wake of global conflicts.
“This law sends a clear message: Muslim Washingtonians are seen, valued, and respected,” Salahuddin added. “Recognition is not special treatment—it’s equal treatment.”
Rep. Salahuddin emphasized that the bill is deeply personal, shaped by his own experiences growing up in Washington schools and inspired by younger generations of Muslim students seeking to feel fully included in the communities they call home.
With the Governor’s signature, Washington becomes one of the few states in the nation to officially recognize Eid, setting a precedent for greater religious inclusion and cultural understanding.
Watch Governor Ferguson’s remarks and the bill signing on TVW. Rep. Salahuddin’s remarks from House passage can be viewed here.