Honor Polish Constitution Day

Senate Resolution No. 3808 BY: Senator GALLIVAN COMMEMORATING the adoption of the Constitution of the Polish-Lithuanian Commonwealth on May 3, 2018 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 adoption of the Constitution of the Polish-Lithuanian Commonwealth on May 3, 2018; and WHEREAS, The celebration of the adoption of the Constitution of the Polish-Lithuanian Commonwealth on May 3, 2018, affirms the culture, identity and self-esteem of a people; it honors a rich heritage and illuminates Poland's history and tradition, as well as the spirit of an indomitable people; and WHEREAS, The people of this great State and Nation and Poland enjoy a deep and abiding relationship rooted in kinship and culture, and many New Yorkers proudly trace their own roots to Poland; and WHEREAS, The Constitution of the Polish-Lithuanian Commonwealth was officially adopted on May 3, 1791; it was modern Europe's first codified national constitution and the second in the world, following the American one; both of these important documents stand as symbols of patriotism and resolve and express the same shared hopes for freedom and self-determination; and WHEREAS, Only two days after the Constitution had been passed by the Grand Sejm (Polish Parliament), the 3rd of May was established as a national holiday; banned during the partitions of Poland, it was reestablished after the fall of communism in modern Poland, and officially became a holiday after the country regained its freedom in

May 3, 2007; and WHEREAS, Today, the 3rd of May is truly a day of celebration for the people of Poland; citizens take the day off from work and gather together to recognize their proud heritage through various events such as a 5km Constitution Run, family picnics, parades, and spring concerts; and WHEREAS, The commemoration of the Constitution of the Polish-Lithuanian Commonwealth on May 3, 2018, provides an opportunity to recognize the significance of their contributions to the quality and character of life, and, through events and activities, allows all people to gain a greater appreciation of Poland's history and traditions, and of the role Poles have 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; and be it further RESOLVED, That this Legislative Body pause in its deliberations to commemorate the adoption of the Constitution of the Polish-Lithuanian Commonwealth on May 3, 2018.