BILL NUMBER: S6487

SPONSOR: FERNANDEZ
 
TITLE OF BILL:

An act to amend the arts and cultural affairs law, in relation to
authorizing the council on the arts  to  designate  Little Yemen as a
cultural district

 
PURPOSE OR GENERAL IDEA OF BILL:

This bill would establish Little Yemen as a cultural district.

 
SUMMARY OF PROVISIONS:

Section 1. Subdivision 11 of § 3.05 of the arts and cultural affairs law
is amended to establish Little Yemen as a cultural district and its
boundary requirements.

Section 2. Effective date.

 
              

JUSTIFICATION:

Designating Little Yemen in the Bronx as a cultural district would yield
numerous benefits for the community and the city at large. By formally
recognizing the area's cultural significance, the city would be acknowl-
edging the valuable contributions of the Yemeni community to the
borough's diversity and heritage. This recognition would, in turn,
foster community pride and empowerment.

Furthermore, establishing Little Yemen as a cultural district would have
a positive impact on the local economy, promoting tourism, business
development, and job creation. It would also facilitate cultural
exchange and education, enriching the community's cultural landscape.
Notably, the Yemeni community in the Bronx has already demonstrated its
capacity for collective action and advocacy, as evidenced by the
successful Bodega Strike of 2017. This strike, which brought together
hundreds of Yemeni-owned bodegas across the city, highlighted the commu-
nity's resilience and solidarity. By designating Little Yemen as a
cultural district, the city would be recognizing and honoring this
community's unique identity and contributions.

The area is home to numerous cultural landmarks and stores that embody
the Yemeni community's heritage and traditions. These include the iconic
Yemeni restaurants, cafes, and bakeries, as well as the many Yemeni-
owned bodegas, grocery stores, and clothing shops that cater to the
community's needs. The area is also home to several mosques and cultural
centers that serve as hubs for community activity and cultural
expression.

Moreover, designating Little Yemen as a cultural district would provide
a model for other cultural districts throughout the city, promoting
diversity and inclusivity. It would also ensure the preservation of the
Yemeni community's cultural heritage, which is at risk due to gentrifi-
cation and urban development. By taking this step, the city would demon-
strate its commitment to cultural preservation and diversity and this
designation would have a positive impact on the local economy, attract-
ing tourism and investment.

 
PRIOR LEGISLATIVE HISTORY:

This is a new bill.

 
FISCAL IMPLICATIONS FOR STATE AND LOCAL GOVERNMENTS:

To be determined

 
EFFECTIVE DATE:
This act shall take effect immediately.