LEGISLATIVE RESOLUTION memorializing Governor Andrew M. Cuomo to
proclaim March 16-22, 2014, as Sunshine Week in the State of New York,
in conjunction with March 16, 2014, as Freedom of Information Day

WHEREAS, The pillars of democracy include government transparency,
accessibility and accountability, resulting in an informed citizenry;
and
WHEREAS, Sunshine Week is a national initiative about the importance
of open government and freedom of information; it seeks to enlighten and
empower people to play an active role in their government at all levels;
and
WHEREAS, This Legislative Body understands and appreciates the value
of access to information it needs to make informed decisions, and the
corresponding importance of access to government information by the
citizens of this state; and
WHEREAS, The free flow of information from the government to the
people instills trust and confidence in our democracy, and ensures that
our government is accessible, accountable and open; and
WHEREAS, We must continue to educate and empower the public regarding
their right to access government documents, information and meetings;
and
WHEREAS, Freedom of Information Day is an event held annually on or
near March 16, the birthday of James Madison, the fourth President of
the United States of America; and
WHEREAS, Hailed as the Father of the Constitution, James Madison was
instrumental in the drafting of the United States Constitution and as
the key champion and author of the United States Bill of Rights; and
WHEREAS, Freedom of information is an extension of freedom of speech,
as well as individual rights, each of which were very important to James
Madison; and
WHEREAS, Furthermore, the protection of freedom of speech as a right
includes not only the content, but also the means of expression; as with
the right to freedom of expression, the right to privacy is a recognized
human right and freedom of information acts as an extension to this
right; and
WHEREAS, Nationwide, during the week of March 16-22, 2014, countless
citizens and other individuals interested in open government will cele-
brate Sunshine Week and Freedom of Information Day; and
WHEREAS, Established to educate the public on the importance of open
government, Sunshine Week and Freedom of Information Day continue to be
instrumental in the preservation of our Nation's core fundamental human
rights; now, therefore, be it
RESOLVED, That this Legislative Body pause in its deliberations to
memorialize Governor Andrew M. Cuomo to proclaim March 16-22, 2014, as
Sunshine Week in the State of New York, in conjunction with March 16,
2014, as Freedom of Information Day; and be it further
RESOLVED, That a copy of this Resolution, suitably engrossed, be tran-
smitted to the Honorable Andrew M. Cuomo, Governor of the State of New
York.