Senate Resolution No. 105

BY: Senator PARKER

MEMORIALIZING Governor Kathy Hochul to proclaim
August 14, 2023, as Pakistan Independence Day in the
State of New York

WHEREAS, It is the sense of this Legislative Body, in keeping with
its time-honored traditions, to recognize and pay tribute to those who
foster ethnic pride and enhance the profile of cultural diversity which
strengthens the fabric of the communities of New York State; and

WHEREAS, This Legislative Body is justly proud to memorialize
Governor Kathy Hochul to proclaim August 14, 2023, as Pakistan
Independence Day in the State of New York; and

WHEREAS, Observed annually on the 14th of August, Pakistan
Independence Day commemorates the day when Pakistan achieved
independence and was declared a sovereign state following the end of the
British Raj in 1947; and

WHEREAS, Pakistan came into existence as a result of the Pakistan
Movement, which aimed for the creation of an independent Muslim state in
the north-western regions of British India via partition; the movement
was led by the All-India Muslim League under the leadership of Muhammad
Ali Jinnah; and

WHEREAS, The event was brought forth by the Indian Independence Act
of 1947, under which the British Raj gave independence to the Dominion
of Pakistan which comprised West Pakistan (present-day Pakistan) and
East Pakistan (now Bangladesh); and

WHEREAS, In the Islamic calendar, the day of independence coincided
with Ramadan 27, the eve of which, being Laylat al-Qadr, is regarded as
sacred by Muslims; and

WHEREAS, The main Independence Day ceremony takes place in
Islamabad, where the national flag is hoisted at the Presidential and
Parliament buildings; it is followed by the national anthem and live
televised speeches by leaders; and

WHEREAS, Furthermore, usual celebratory events and festivities for
the day include flag-raising ceremonies, parades, cultural events, and
the playing of patriotic songs; several award ceremonies are often held
on this day, and Pakistanis hoist the national flag atop their homes or
display it prominently on their vehicles and attire; and

WHEREAS, Pakistan Independence Day provides an excellent means by
which all New Yorkers can learn more about the rich Pakistani heritage,
while fostering an appreciation for this ancient culture among future
generations; and

WHEREAS, This Legislative Body is proud to acknowledge various
cultures of people who add to the overall diversity of our State and, on
this occasion, we take the opportunity to recognize the contributions
made by the Pakistani-American community and extend best wishes to all

of its members as they hold appropriate ceremonies to commemorate this
historic milestone; now, therefore, be it

RESOLVED, That this Legislative Body pause in its deliberations to
memorialize Governor Kathy Hochul to proclaim August 14, 2022, as
Pakistan Independence Day in the State of New York; and be it further

RESOLVED, That a copy of this Resolution, suitably engrossed, be
transmitted to The Honorable Kathy Hochul, Governor of the State of New
York.