If you live in the United States, odds are you get a day off for Christmas, maybe even a week. Even if you’re not Christian, you’re surrounded by the holiday—stores shut down, families gather and the country essentially pauses. It’s so ingrained in American culture that even those of us from other religious backgrounds have grown up celebrating in some way, whether through exchanging gifts with friends or simply enjoying a break from school. Growing up Muslim, I’ve honestly learned so much about the holiday and gained so much appreciation for it.
But if America is truly a secular nation, why does this treatment only extend to Christian holidays? Why don’t we see the same widespread acknowledgment for holidays that hold deep significance for other communities—whether religious, cultural or historical?
Looking at the current list of federal holidays, a pattern emerges. The U.S. currently has 11 federal holidays, nearly all of which are centered on Christianity, patriotism or historical events tied to European-American figures. There is no official recognition of major celebrations from non-Christian traditions or non-European cultures, even though America prides itself on being a “melting pot.”
Take Eid, for example. There are an estimated 4.45 million Muslims in the U.S., and yet most workplaces and schools don’t acknowledge one of Islam’s biggest celebrations. Observing Eid properly often means requesting time off, missing important deadlines or choosing between religious observance and academic/work obligations. Ramadan, which runs this year from February 28 to March 29, is another challenge. Muslims fast from sunrise to sunset, yet there’s little institutional flexibility to accommodate this. Something as simple as adjusted exam schedules or dining hall options for suhoor (pre-dawn meal) and iftar (breaking fast) would make a world of difference for students and faculty who observe the religion.
But this conversation shouldn’t be limited to religion. Cultural celebrations are just as overlooked. Lunar New Year, for example, is widely celebrated across East and Southeast Asia—China, Korea, Vietnam and beyond. For millions, it marks one of the most important times of the year for family reunions and new beginnings. Yet, for many Asian Americans, it’s just another work or school day. Hispanic and Indigenous celebrations, like Día de los Muertos, also hold deep cultural significance but remain unrecognized on a national scale.
Recognizing these holidays as federal (or at least widely observed) could do more than just provide flexibility for people to celebrate—it could increase cultural literacy and inclusivity. If we’re serious about America being a diverse, multicultural society, then that diversity should be reflected in our national calendar.
Of course, some, or many, if I’m being honest, might argue that the U.S. can’t simply keep adding more and more holidays. Businesses, schools and the economy rely on productivity, and too many days off could disrupt essential services.
But guess what—federal holidays aren’t about shutting everything down constantly. It’s more so a matter of recognition and respect. Not every holiday needs to be a day off for all industries, but official acknowledgment matters. Even symbolic recognition, like optional leave for major cultural or religious celebrations, could go a long way. Schools already offer excused absences for religious observance, but systemic support and policies could make participation truly accessible.
Other countries already do this. Canada, for instance, recognizes more holidays at a federal and provincial level, with flexible observance based on regional demographics. The UK and Australia also have more official recognition of non-Christian celebrations. The U.S. could follow suit without causing economic collapse.
At Bucknell, where diversity initiatives are often discussed, we should consider what meaningful inclusion looks like. Recognizing major religious and cultural holidays beyond Christianity could help give people a break—but also contribute to education, awareness and making students of all backgrounds feel seen. Many universities in diverse regions have started acknowledging Eid or Lunar New Year with official days off or academic accommodations. Bucknell should do the same.
With Trump and others ramping up attacks on Diversity, Equity and Inclusion efforts (DEI), the political climate isn’t exactly favorable for sweeping changes. But that doesn’t mean we shouldn’t push for them. America prides itself on religious freedom and cultural diversity, yet true inclusion means concrete recognition. More federal holidays—especially those reflecting the actual diversity of its people—would be a step toward making that a reality.
Until then, I’ll keep recognizing Christmas with my friends and appreciating the time off—while also wondering why the same courtesy isn’t extended to others.