Assembly Resolution No. 668

BY: M. of A. Blake

MEMORIALIZING Governor Andrew M. Cuomo to proclaim
June 2017, as Immigrant Heritage Month in the State
of New York

WHEREAS, Generations of immigrants from every corner of the globe
have built our country's economy and created the unique character of our
State and Nation; and

WHEREAS, Immigrants continue to grow businesses, innovate,
strengthen our economy and create jobs in New York State; and

WHEREAS, Immigrants have provided the United States of America and
New York State with unique social and cultural influence, fundamentally
enriching the extraordinary character of each; and

WHEREAS, Immigrants constitute a vital segment not only in our
State's community and economic affairs, but also our State's democracy;
and

WHEREAS, Immigrants comprise more than a quarter of our State's
workforce and for that reason the care and well-being of these
individuals is not only a priority but a necessity for the economic
health of this State; and

WHEREAS, Immigrants account for nearly a third of New York's
economic output in metropolitan areas and produce more than a fifth of
New York's gross domestic product; and

WHEREAS, Foreign-born students seeking educational opportunities in
New York contribute billions of dollars to the State in their journey to
success; and

WHEREAS, Immigrants have been tireless leaders not only in securing
their own rights and access to equal opportunity, but have also
campaigned to create a fairer and more just society for all Americans;
and

WHEREAS, Despite these countless contributions, the role of
immigrants in building and enriching our Nation has frequently been
overlooked and undervalued throughout history and continuing to the
present day; and

WHEREAS, It is imperative that there be greater public awareness and
increased recognition of the contributions of immigrant communities at
the local, state and national levels; now, therefore, be it

RESOLVED, That this Legislative Body pause in its deliberations to
memorialize Governor Andrew M. Cuomo to proclaim June 2017, as Immigrant
Heritage Month in the State of New York; and be it further

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

New York, and to the events commemorating Immigrant Heritage Month
throughout New York State.