Recognize National Freedom Day

Senate Resolution No. 2447 BY: Senator PARKER RECOGNIZING February 1, 2020, as National Freedom Day WHEREAS, It is the sense of this Legislative Body to recognize important events which remind us of the rich and diverse heritage of our great State and Nation; and WHEREAS, Attendant to such concern, and in full accord with its long-standing traditions, this Legislative Body is justly proud to recognize February 1, 2020, as National Freedom Day; and WHEREAS, February 1st has been designated as National Freedom Day in the United States to celebrate and recognize the abolition of slavery; this joyful celebration is held across New York State and America to fittingly note the contributions of African Americans throughout history and in all fields of endeavor; and WHEREAS, National Freedom Day is a time to reflect on the struggles and victories of African Americans throughout our country's history and to recognize their numerous valuable contributions to the protection of our democratic society in times of war and in peace; and WHEREAS, In addition to freedom from slavery, National Freedom Day recognizes America as a true symbol for freedom; it honors the signing of a joint House and Senate Resolution by Abraham Lincoln which later became the 13th Amendment of the United States Constitution; and WHEREAS, President Abraham Lincoln signed the Amendment outlawing slavery on February 1, 1865, however, it was not ratified by the states until December 18, 1865; and WHEREAS, A former slave and great leader in the community by the name of Major Richard Robert Wright, Sr. created National Freedom Day; and WHEREAS, On June 30, 1948, President Harry Truman signed a bill proclaiming February 1st as the first official National Freedom Day in the United States; and WHEREAS, On this day throughout our great State and Nation, many towns have festivals and celebrations, reflecting on the freedoms the United States honors, as well as reflecting on and appreciating the goodwill of the United States; and WHEREAS, Events which celebrate diversity and peace contribute to fulfilling our Nation's great legacy of equality and opportunity for all, and do so profoundly enhance our shared commitment to freedom and justice; now, therefore, be it RESOLVED, That this Legislative Body pause in its deliberations to recognize February 1, 2020, as National Freedom Day.