Senate Resolution No. 440

BY: Senator LIU

RECOGNIZING March 26, 2021, as Bangladesh
Independence Day

WHEREAS, It is the sense of this Legislative Body to recognize that
the people of this State acknowledge significant days of historical
importance; the Independence of Bangladesh is such an event; and

WHEREAS, This Legislative Body is justly proud to join with fellow
Bengali citizens to recognize March 26, 2021, as Bangladesh Independence
Day; and

WHEREAS, The 50th Anniversary of Bangladesh's independence is an
occasion of great historical as well as emotional importance to
Bangladeshi-Americans; many of them had taken part in the liberation
war, either on the battlefield or through other activities while living
in the United States in 1971; and

WHEREAS, In 1971, during Bangladesh's liberation, more than three
million people lost their lives; 50 years later, their memory still
inspires the people of Bangladesh to build a peaceful nation; and

WHEREAS, As an integral part of the socio-economic and cultural
fabric of New York, Bangladeshi-Americans continue to play a vital role
in promoting a multi-cultural and progressive environment for all
communities, contributing in numerous ways to its growth and prosperity;
and

WHEREAS, The observance of Bangladesh's golden jubilee helps to
bring Bangladeshi-Americans closer to other ethnic communities in the
State of New York; and

WHEREAS, The Muktadhara Foundation has been promoting the observance
of Bangladesh's Independence Day on March 26th since 2016 through a
colorful public parade; and

WHEREAS, This vital organization has honored several Americans,
including film-maker Lear Levine and leader of the Quaker Community
Richard Tayler, for their immense contribution to Bangladesh's freedom
movement, through special commemorative events; and

WHEREAS, In addition, the Muktadhara Foundation has organized book
displays and photo exhibits on Bangladesh's freedom struggle and, for
the past five years, has organized an annual children's festival
honoring the birth of Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, the Father of
the Nation of Bangladesh; and

WHEREAS, This year, upon the occasion of Bangladesh's 50th
Anniversary, the Muktadhara Foundation has organized a week-long virtual
celebration that will include seminars, discussions and cultural
activities; this will also be the 30th Anniversary of the Bangla Book
Fair that the Foundation has organized since 1991; and

WHEREAS, The State of New York recognizes the accomplishments of the
Bengali people around the world and commends the integrity of the
citizens of Bangladesh and their perseverance in their fight for
independence; now, therefore, be it

RESOLVED, That this Legislative Body pause in its deliberations to
recognize March 26, 2021, as Bangladesh Independence Day; and be it
further

RESOLVED, That a copy of this Resolution, suitably engrossed, be
transmitted to the Muktadhara Foundation.