Senate Resolution No. 3779

BY: Senator HAMILTON

COMMEMORATING the 40th Anniversary of the
Independence of Dominica

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
commemorate the 40th Anniversary of the Independence of Dominica; and

WHEREAS, The people of this great State and Nation and Dominica
enjoy a deep and abiding relationship rooted in kinship and culture; and

WHEREAS, Officially known as the Commonwealth of Dominica, Dominica
is an island nation located in the Caribbean, and it neighbors
Martinique to the south and Guadalupe to the north; and

WHEREAS, Dominica was discovered by Christopher Columbus in 1493
while on his second voyage to the new world; despite European influence,
Dominica is one of the few Caribbean islands with remaining populations
of pre-Columbian Indians; in addition, most Dominicans are descendants
of African slaves from the 18th century; and

WHEREAS, For the next few hundred years, Dominica was controlled by
France and native populations until it came under British rule in 1783;
in 1871, Dominica became a federal colony attached to the Leeward
Islands; and

WHEREAS, Dominica declared its independence from Britain on November
3, 1978; and

WHEREAS, The 40th Anniversary of Dominica's Independence provides an
opportunity to recognize the significance of its contributions to the
quality and character of life, and, through events and activities, for
all people to gain a greater appreciation of its history and traditions,
and of the role it has played, and will continue to play, in our
society; 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
commemorate the 40th Anniversary of the Independence of Dominica.