Assembly Resolution No. 2382

BY: M. of A. Rules (Chandler-Waterman)

MEMORIALIZING Governor Kathy Hochul to proclaim
November 30, 2024, as Barbados Flag 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
organizations which foster ethnic pride and enhance the profile of
cultural diversity which strengthens the fabric of the communities of
New York State; and

WHEREAS, Attendant to such concern, and in full accord with its
long-standing traditions, it is the intent of this Legislative Body to
memorialize Governor Kathy Hochul to proclaim November 30, 2024, as
Barbados Flag Day in the State of New York; and

WHEREAS, The Barbados National Flag is a symbol of pride and unity
for the Caribbean island nation of Barbados; it represents the rich
history, vibrant culture, and strong values of the Bajan people; and

WHEREAS, The Barbados National Flag has a captivating history that
dates back to its independence from British colonial rule on November
30, 1966, making it one of the earliest English colonies to gain
sovereignty; Barbados Flag Day commemorates this historic event; prior
to that, Barbados used a different flag design, known as the Blue
Ensign; and

WHEREAS, The introduction of the new national flag represented the
nation's determination to forge its own path and was a significant step
towards asserting Barbados' identity as an independent nation; the flag
became a powerful symbol of liberation and the resilience of the
Barbadian people; and

WHEREAS, The Barbados National Flag features a tricolor design with
three equal vertical bands of ultramarine blue, gold, and ultramarine
blue; in the center of the gold band, there is a broken trident, the
national emblem of Barbados; and

WHEREAS, The flag's design carries deep symbolism that represents
various aspects of the country's heritage and aspirations; and

WHEREAS, The colors of the Barbados National Flag hold symbolic
significance; the ultramarine blue represents the sea surrounding the
island, symbolizing Barbados' position as a maritime nation; the gold
band signifies the golden sands of Barbados' beaches and the sunshine
that bathes the island throughout the year; and

WHEREAS, The broken trident at the center of the Barbados National
Flag represents Barbados' break from its colonial past and its
transition to an independent nation; the three points of the trident
symbolize democracy, independence, and self-government; and

WHEREAS, Barbados celebrates National Flag Day on November 30th each
year; this day is dedicated to honoring the significance of the national

flag and recognizing its role in shaping the country's identity; various
events and activities take place across the island to commemorate this
special day; and

WHEREAS, The Barbados National Flag holds great importance for the
people of Barbados; it serves as a powerful symbol of national pride,
unity, and identity; the flag evokes a sense of belonging and loyalty
among Barbadians, fostering a strong bond with their homeland; and

WHEREAS, It is the intent of this Legislative Body to urge the
citizens of New York State to join those of Barbadian backgrounds, in
recognition of the ties between the State of New York and Barbados, as
they rejoice in the accomplishments of their ancestors by memorializing
November 30, 2024, as Barbados Flag Day; now, therefore, be it

RESOLVED, That this Legislative Body pause in its deliberations to
memorialize Governor Kathy Hochul to proclaim November 30, 2024, as
Barbados Flag 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.