Declare Gang Free Zone Day

June 11, 2019, as Gang Free Zone Day in the State of New York WHEREAS, It is the custom of this Legislative Body to recognize official weeks that are set aside to increase awareness of serious illnesses that affect the lives of citizens 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 June 11, 2019, as Gang Free Zone Day in the State of New York; and WHEREAS, Gang violence, according to law enforcement agencies has consistently been the single largest contributor to the overall devastating crime rates in the State of New York; and WHEREAS, Since gang violence is the single most urgent public safety challenge faced by New Yorkers, especially those in low income neighborhoods, grassroots preventive efforts must then start with addressing this serious issue; and WHEREAS, While the Big Apple remains the safest big city in the nation, gang violence has continued to rob many families of their loved ones, devastate the communities, and deprive New Yorkers of any sustainable socioeconomic progress; and WHEREAS, To counter this persistent gang proliferation, light should be brought to this great concern facing our communities; and WHEREAS, This Legislative Body, representing the people of the State of New York, supports that restriction of gang activities in certain venues, such as: houses of worship, educational parameters, sports, entertainment, eatery, recreational, religious, political, and community venues, funeral homes, political and community forums, senior centers, NYCHA housing developments, government and municipal, health, medical facilities, bodegas, business establishments, rallies and parades, precincts and law enforcement facilities, and commercial and non for profit establishments must be vigorously enforced and violators punished; and WHEREAS, It is imperative that there be greater awareness of this serious issue, and more must be done to increase activity 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 11, 2019, as Gang Free Zone Day 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.