LONG ISLAND, NY — March 28, 2026 — The Eid Holiday Coalition held its annual Eid Gala, marking an important moment in the growing recognition of Eid as an official public school holiday across Long Island, New York State, and around the country.
The event brought together superintendents, school board members, elected officials, educators, and community leaders to reflect on years of advocacy that have led to real policy changes for Muslim students and families.
Throughout the event, there was a strong focus on how grassroots organizing and community collaboration helped move this effort forward. New York State Division of Human Rights Commissioner Denise Miranda delivered the keynote, speaking about the importance of protecting the rights of all New Yorkers. Governor Kathy Hochul also shared remarks through her representatives, acknowledging the coalition’s impact.
One of the highlights of the program was a performance by ADAMS BEAT, America’s first masjid-based youth choir from Virginia. Made up of Muslim-American youth between the ages of 7 and 16, the group brought energy and emotion to the stage. The program was led by student MCs Hafsa Mercan and Suhayla Uddin.
Honorees were recognized for their leadership and commitment to making sure Eid is acknowledged and respected within school systems. Students also shared personal reflections on Ramadan and Eid, while educators were recognized for the role they play in supporting inclusive classrooms. Dr. Debbie Almontaser spoke about the growing importance of Muslim American Heritage Month in New York State.
The gala also introduced a new Youth Innovation Excellence Award, recognizing young people who are making a real impact in their communities. Among the recipients was Iman Kermali, founder of Hoop Buddies, a nonprofit basketball program that creates an inclusive space for children of all abilities.
Also recognized were Aaila Rehman, Huda Ali, Nafisa Qadri, and Mutashma Shaaf, the founders of Wellness on Wheels, a youth-led initiative focused on addressing food insecurity. Their work includes maintaining a community garden, organizing food distributions, and providing essential items to families in need through partnerships with local organizations.
Founded in 2016, the Eid Holiday Coalition is a national network of students and parents working to advance inclusion and equity for Muslim Americans in public schools. Through community engagement and collaboration, the coalition has helped communities across the country push for recognition of Eid al-Fitr and Eid al-Adha.
On Long Island alone, grassroots efforts have led to Eid being recognized in around 50 school districts, including BOCES. The coalition has also expanded across New York State, with chapters in Albany, Rochester, Westchester, and Syracuse, and nationally in states like New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Virginia, Michigan, and Connecticut.
Beyond holiday recognition, the coalition focuses on improving the overall student experience. This includes advocating for Ramadan accommodations like alternative lunch spaces and prayer areas, pushing for flexibility around statewide testing during Eid, expanding access to halal food options in schools, and supporting inclusive curriculum that helps address Islamophobia.
The coalition also works to empower students through leadership and civic engagement, encouraging involvement in school organizations, advocacy efforts, and community initiatives.
The event was hosted by the Eid Holiday Coalition’s executive committee, including Founder and President Dr. Uzma Syed, Vice President Dr. Farhana Islam, Secretary Dr. Sara Siddiqui, and Treasurer Mrs. Sally Hassanein.
At the state level, the coalition has also played a role in advancing the Eid Bill, which has received bipartisan support in the New York State Legislature. Nationally, its work has been recognized at the highest levels, including invitations to the White House Eid Celebration.
The event closed as a reflection of how far the movement has come, and the work still ahead—continuing to build stronger connections between schools and communities while pushing for greater inclusion and representation.