Recognize Kwanzaa Statewide

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.