Assembly Resolution No. 545

BY: M. of A. Rajkumar

RECOGNIZING July 23, 2023, as Egyptian Heritage
Day in the State of New York

WHEREAS, It is the sense of this Legislative Body to recognize and
pay just tribute to the cultural heritage of the ethnic groups which
comprise and contribute to the richness and diversity of the community
of the State of New York; and

WHEREAS, Attendant to such concern, and in keeping with its
time-honored traditions, it is the intent of this Legislative Body to
recognize July 23, 2023, as Egyptian Heritage Day in the State of New
York; and

WHEREAS, The Arab Republic of Egypt is a great ally of our State and
Nation, sharing deep economic, social, and cultural ties; and

WHEREAS, Egypt is the second-largest recipient of American foreign
aid, representing our Nation's profound appreciation of our diplomatic
relationship; and

WHEREAS, The friendly relationship between the United States and
Egypt is visible in New York City, home to the Temple of Dendur at the
Metropolitan Museum of Art, and Cleopatra's Needle in Central Park, both
gifts from the Egyptian government; and

WHEREAS, The United States is home to over 250,000 Egyptian
Americans, who constitute the largest Arab American community in our
Nation, and make immeasurable contributions to the arts, the STEM
fields, business, philanthropy, academics, defense, sports, religion,
and government; and

WHEREAS, Over 30,000 Egyptian Americans live in our Great State,
residing predominantly in New York City, where they have left an
indelible imprint on every facet of life; and

WHEREAS, The heart of New York's Egyptian American community is the
beloved neighborhood of Little Egypt in Astoria, home to thriving
businesses, including vibrant restaurants and hookah lounges; and

WHEREAS, In appreciation of the Egyptian American community, in
2023, New York City co-named Steinway Street between Astoria Boulevard
and 28th Avenue as "Little Egypt"; 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
recognize July 23, 2023, as Egyptian Heritage Day in the State of New
York; and be it further

RESOLVED, That copies of this Resolution, suitably engrossed, be
transmitted to the Consul General of Egypt, and various Egyptian
organizations in the State of New York.