LEGISLATIVE RESOLUTION commemorating the observance of the Anniversary
of the Restoration of Lithuania's Independence on February 16, 1918 and
the Anniversary of the Restoration of the Independence of Lithuania on
March 11, 1990

WHEREAS, Throughout our nation's history, Americans have stood in soli-
darity with the people of other nations who have fought for their inde-
pendence and for the cause of freedom; and
WHEREAS, In keeping with this tradition, this Legislative Body has
long been justly proud to join these nations in the celebration of mile-
stones in their history and is pleased to commemorate, on February 11,
2014, Lithuania's observance of the Anniversary of the Restoration of
its Independence on February 16, 1918 and also the Anniversary of the
Restoration of its Independence on March 11, 1990; and
WHEREAS, Lithuanians belong to the Baltic group of nations; its tradi-
tion of statehood dates from the early Middle Ages; in 1905, Lithuania
was the first of what had become Russian provinces to demand autonomy;
independence was not granted but the demand was not abandoned; and
WHEREAS, World War I led to the collapse of the Russian and German
Empires, making it possible for Lithuania to assert its statehood and,
on February 16, 1918, Lithuania declared its full independence and still
celebrates that day as its Independence Day; and
WHEREAS, Two million Lithuanian-American citizens reside throughout
the United States and have excelled in many fields including government,
business, entertainment and athletics, and have attained well-deserved
acclaim for their many achievements; and
WHEREAS, New York State is home to a large and thriving Lithuanian
community, many of whom have made significant contributions to our great
Empire State; and
WHEREAS, It is the sense of this Legislative Body to recognize the
great contributions Lithuanian-Americans have brought to our State and
Nation, to pay tribute to all Lithuanians who struggled for peace in
their homeland, and to wish the Lithuanian-American Community continued
success in its purposeful endeavors; now, therefore, be it
RESOLVED, That this Legislative Body pause in its deliberations to
commemorate, on February 11, 2014, the observance of the Anniversary of
the Restoration of Lithuania's Independence on February 16, 1918 and of
the Anniversary of the Restoration of the Independence of Lithuania on
March 11, 1990; and be it further
RESOLVED, That a copy of this Resolution, suitably engrossed, be tran-
smitted to The Honorable Valdemaras Sarapinas, Consul General of the
Consulate General of the Republic of Lithuania.