Senate Resolution No. 2574

BY: Senator SEPULVEDA

HONORING the inaugural projection of the
documentary "Orgullo de Quisqueya" in New York in
June of 2024 at Lehman College, and recognizing the
film's significant contributions to the Dominican
community and the cultural landscape of New York

WHEREAS, The State of New York, renowned for its cultural diversity
and vibrant artistic community, proudly recognizes and honors the
contributions of filmmakers who celebrate and promote the heritage and
accomplishments of the Dominican community; and

WHEREAS, This Legislative Body is justly proud to honor the
inaugural projection of the documentary "Orgullo de Quisqueya" in New
York, recognizing the film's profound impact on the cultural landscape
of New York, and commending the filmmakers for their dedication and
visionary efforts; and

WHEREAS, "Orgullo de Quisqueya," a 2023 documentary feature film
with a duration of 90 minutes, produced by Jessica Hasbun and Kelvin
Liria, directed by Tito Rodriguez, and featuring the cinematography of
Oliver Mota SDC, along with the screenwriting team of Jessica Hasbun,
Kamila Orizondo, and Junior Rosario, is a tribute to the resilience,
sacrifice, and dreams of Dominican emigrants; and

WHEREAS, The documentary captures the stories and memories of nine
distinguished Dominicans living around the world, including Francisca
Lachapel, Ariel Suero, Scarlin Hernandez, Quemuel Arroyo, Jose Ramon
Genao, Dra. Bernarda Jimenez, Vicente Garcia, Julissa Reynoso, and Dr.
Kathleen Martinez, showcasing their exceptional contributions and
achievements; and

WHEREAS, Among these distinguished individuals, Quemuel Arroyo, a
New Yorker and the Director of Accessibility at the Metropolitan
Transportation Authority (MTA), exemplifies the dedication and impact of
Dominican immigrants in New York; and

WHEREAS, "Orgullo de Quisqueya" pays homage to Dominicans who have
become ambassadors of their culture, highlighting their courage,
dedication, and the enduring impact they have on their communities and
beyond; and

WHEREAS, The film's inaugural projection at Lehman College in June
2024 marks a significant cultural event for New York, bringing together
the Dominican and broader Hispanic communities to celebrate their shared
heritage and achievements; and

WHEREAS, The strategic foresight and leadership of the film's
creators, including producers, directors, and contributors, have been
instrumental in bringing these powerful stories to light, ensuring their
place in the cultural narrative and promoting Dominican excellence
worldwide; and

WHEREAS, The State of New York acknowledges the cultural
significance of "Orgullo de Quisqueya" and its role in enriching the
cultural fabric of New York, fostering a deeper connection between the
Dominican community and their heritage; now, therefore, be it

RESOLVED, That this Legislative Body pauses in its deliberations to
honor the documentary "Orgullo de Quisqueya" and its creators for their
remarkable achievements and contributions to the cultural diversity of
New York; and be it further

RESOLVED, That copies of this Resolution, suitably engrossed, be
transmitted to the producers of "Orgullo de Quisqueya," Jessica Hasbun
and Kelvin Liria.