Recognize Nowruz in New York

March 21, 2019, as Day of Nowruz in the State of New York WHEREAS, It is the sense of this Legislative Body to recognize official days that are set aside to increase awareness and enhance the profile of cultural diversity which strengthens the fabric of the communities of New York State; and WHEREAS, Attendant to such concern, and in full accord with its long-standing traditions, this Legislative Body is justly proud to memorialize Governor Andrew M. Cuomo to proclaim March 21, 2019, as Day of Nowruz in the State of New York, in conjunction with the observance of International Day of Nowruz; and WHEREAS, The Persian New Year, Nowruz, meaning "New Day," begins each year on the first day of spring marked by vernal equinox, or Tahvil; on this day, which may occur on March 20th, 21st, or 22nd, the sun crosses the celestial equator; and WHEREAS, Of all Persian holidays, the New Year celebration is the most important, embodying a wealth of ancient rites and customs, and symbolizing the continuity of the ancient Persian culture which has survived many adversities; and WHEREAS, As far back as records go, Nowruz has been a celebration of early spring, when the sun begins to regain strength and overcome winter's cold and darkness, and when there is a renewal of growth and vigor in nature; and WHEREAS, A few days prior to the New Year, a special cover is spread onto the carpet or table in every Persian household; this ceremonial table is called cloth of seven dishes, each one beginning with the Persian letter Sin; the number seven has been sacred in Persia since the ancient times, and the seven dishes stand for the seven angelic heralds of life-rebirth, health, happiness, prosperity, joy, patience, and beauty; and WHEREAS, The actual Nowruz ceremonies begin on the eve of the last Wednesday of the outgoing year and is known as Chaharshanbe Souri, or Red Wednesday; early in the evening several large bonfires are made and each member of the family jumps over the fire; and WHEREAS, Furthermore, the jumping over the fire is followed by a gathering in which nuts and fruits are served and stories are told; while the party goes and the fire dies out, the ashes, a symbol of the bad luck imposed by winter, are buried; and WHEREAS, The traditional herald of Nowruz, Haji Firuz, oversees celebrations for the New Year as a remnant of the ancient Zoroastrian fire-keeper; his face is covered in soot and he is clad in bright red clothes and a felt hat; and WHEREAS, While ushering in Nowruz, Haji Firuz plays a tambourine and sings as people gather around him and his troupe of musicians, spreading good cheer and the news of the coming New Year; and WHEREAS, The 13th day of Nowruz is called Sizdah Bedar, celebrated by spending all day outdoors in nature having picnics and parties; and WHEREAS, Day of Nowruz is a time to celebrate the aspirations and values that have been shared with the Persian people for generations, and to recognize the countless contributions of Americans and New Yorkers of Persian descent to every aspect of society; now, therefore, be it RESOLVED, That this Legislative Body pause in its deliberations to memorialize Governor Andrew M. Cuomo to proclaim March 21, 2019, as Day of Nowruz in the State of New York; 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.