Senate Resolution No. 1598

BY: Senator SEPULVEDA

COMMEMORATING the 180th Anniversary of the
Independence of the Dominican Republic to be
celebrated on February 27, 2024

WHEREAS, It is the practice of this Legislative Body to commemorate
historical events which exemplify the spirit and struggle of peoples
throughout the world to achieve independence and live in peace and
freedom; and

WHEREAS, Attendant to such concern, and in full accord with its
long-standing traditions, this Legislative Body is justly proud to
commemorate the 180th Anniversary of the Independence of the Dominican
Republic to be celebrated on February 27, 2024; and

WHEREAS, The people of the Dominican Republic acquired autonomy and
sovereignty on the 27th day of February 1844; and

WHEREAS, The Island of Quisqueya, the indigenous name for what later
became the island of Hispaniola, was the cradle of thinking and
advancement in the western hemisphere, establishing the first university
and cathedral of the New World; and

WHEREAS, Juan Pablo Duarte, along with Francisco Del Rosario Sanchez
and Ramon Matias Melia, formed La Trinitaria, a secret organization that
initiated the movement for the independence of the Dominican Republic;
and

WHEREAS, During the month of February 2024, Dominican Nationals and
Dominican Americans from throughout the Dominican Republic and the
United States will celebrate the independence of the Dominican Republic;
and

WHEREAS, There are over one million Dominicans who call New York
State their home and over two million Dominican Nationals living across
the United States, comprising one of the fastest growing immigrant
groups in our State; and

WHEREAS, Today, we recognize the numerous contributions of Dominican
and Dominican Americans to our great State adding to the cultural and
economic vibrancy of New York; Dominicans are leaders of industry
leaving their impact on music, literature, cuisine, fashion, film,
sports, education, government and politics; and

WHEREAS, The 180th Anniversary of the Independence of the Dominican
Republic provides an opportunity to recognize the significance of their
contributions to the quality and character of life, and, through events
and activities, for all people to gain a greater appreciation of
Dominican history and traditions, and of the role Dominicans have
played, and will continue to play, in our society; and

WHEREAS, This Legislative Body is pleased to have this opportunity
to recognize such events of significance which foster ethnic pride and

exemplify the cultural diversity that represents and strengthens the
fabric of the people and the State of New York; now, therefore, be it

RESOLVED, That this Legislative Body pause in its deliberations to
commemorate the 180th Anniversary of the Independence of the Dominican
Republic to be celebrated on February 27, 2024; and be it further

RESOLVED, That copies of this Resolution, suitably engrossed, be
transmitted to various Dominican organizations in New York State.