Senate Resolution No. 2859

BY: Senator PARKER

MEMORIALIZING Governor Andrew M. Cuomo to proclaim
and commemorate New York State's observance of
Kwanzaa, December 26, 2017 -January 1, 2018

WHEREAS, It is a long and proud tradition of the State of New York
to recognize and applaud events which foster a spirit of community and
pride as they preserve and enhance the rich cultural heritage and ethnic
diversity of its citizens; and

WHEREAS, As an African American and Pan-African holiday celebrated
by millions throughout the world's African community, Kwanzaa brings a
cultural message which speaks to the best of what it means to be African
and human in the fullest sense; and

WHEREAS, Kwanzaa has profound significance for African Americans and
the world African community; during Kwanzaa, African Americans and
people around the world reflect on and celebrate African heritage; and

WHEREAS, The seven days of this celebration emphasize the seven
principles of Nguzo Saba -- unity, self-determination, collective work
and responsibility, cooperative economics, purpose, creativity, and
faith, values which contribute to a culture of citizenship and
compassion; and

WHEREAS, As families and friends gather for Kwanzaa, New Yorkers
remember the many contributions African Americans have made to our
State's and our country's character and celebrate the diversity which
makes our nation strong; and

WHEREAS, The celebration of Kwanzaa exemplifies commitment to
family, faith, and community; participation in Kwanzaa activities helps
pass African values and traditions on to future generations that they
may thrive during the holiday and throughout the year; and

WHEREAS, Kwanzaa reflects the best of African thought and practice
in its reaffirmation of the dignity of the human person in community and
culture, the well-being of family and community, the integrity of the
environment and our kinship with it, and the rich resource and meaning
of a people's culture; and

WHEREAS, Fifty years after the first observance of Kwanzaa, this
hopeful occasion remains an opportunity to build the bonds of family,
community, and culture and to move ever closer to the founding promise
of liberty and justice for all; and

WHEREAS, Our State and our Nation are better because of the
contributions African Americans have made to our strength and character
over the generations; in celebrating Kwanzaa and their ancestry, African
Americans may take just pride in their many achievements and look to the
future with confidence in their abilities and faith in a brighter
tomorrow; now, therefore, be it

RESOLVED, That this Legislative Body pause in its deliberations to
memorialize Governor Andrew M. Cuomo to proclaim and commemorate New
York State's observance of Kwanzaa, December 26, 2017 - January 1, 2018;
and be it further

RESOLVED, That a copy of this Resolution, suitably engrossed, be
transmitted to The Honorable Andrew M. Cuomo, Governor of the State of
New York.