Senate Resolution No. 5054

BY: Senator HOYLMAN

MEMORIALIZING Governor Andrew M. Cuomo to proclaim
May 5, 2018, as Free Comic Book Day in the State of
New York, in conjunction with the observance of
National Free Comic Book Day

WHEREAS, It is the honor and privilege of this Legislative Body to
recognize the historic significance and creative achievements of
artistic and cultural institutions within the State of New York, and in
doing so, help to ensure that the complete history of our State and
Nation is preserved and shared with present and future generations of
New Yorkers; and

WHEREAS, In celebration of the comic book, which can trace its
history to the 1842 publication of the first newspaper comic strip in
New York City, as an art form that has evolved over the decades to bring
reading and adventure to both young and old, this Legislative Body is
justly proud to memorialize Governor Andrew M. Cuomo to proclaim May 5,
2018, as Free Comic Book Day in the State of New York, in conjunction
with the observance of National Free Comic Book Day, a holiday dedicated
to introducing readers to independent comic book stores and this
fantastic craft; and

WHEREAS, The comic book industry is a homegrown Manhattan industry,
especially in New York's 27th State Senate District where Marvel
originated in its earliest iteration as Timely Comics; and

WHEREAS, Marvel Comics has contributed to New York's economy and
tourism especially, with many traveling to New York specifically to see
where Spider-Man or other superheroes helped save the city and the
world; and

WHEREAS, Storied New York City neighborhoods such as Hell's Kitchen,
Greenwich Village, Lower East Side, Midtown, and the Boroughs of
Brooklyn and Queens are home to countless comic book protagonists,
including Daredevil, The Fantastic Four, Doctor Strange, Captain America
and the Avengers, Jessica Jones, Luke Cage, and our friendly
neighborhood Spiderman who toils at the Daily Bugle in the Flatiron
District when he isn't busy fighting crime; and

WHEREAS, The real life New York City has been recognized as a
creative center for all manner of artists, including comic book
illustrators and writers, contributing to the economy and the overall
dynamic culture of this city; and

WHEREAS, The comic book industry has blossomed into a successful
television and movie industry that enchants and inspires young people of
diverse backgrounds, such as the widely popular and instantly iconic
Black Panther movie of this past year; and

WHEREAS, New York City's diversity, energy and culture are key
factors taken into consideration in the creation of new comics today so
that every reader has a character who they recognize in themselves and
with whom they can identify; and


WHEREAS, Comics remain a way for people to connect through fictional
characters through cosplay, conventions, and other gatherings of fans
and admirers, frequently hosted in New York City; and

WHEREAS, Free Comic Book Day celebrates comics, making the art form
accessible to all who wish to peruse new publications and delve into the
world of comics and graphic novels and books; now, therefore, be it

RESOLVED, That this Legislative Body pause in its deliberations to
memorialize Governor Andrew M. Cuomo to proclaim May 5, 2018, as Free
Comic Book Day in the State of New York, in conjunction with the
observance of National Free Comic Book Day, and to commemorate and
recognize Free Comic Book Day as a celebration of comics and those who
love them; 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.