2009-K881
LEGISLATIVE RESOLUTION expressing sincere, heartfelt condolences to the
people of Haiti in wake of the devastating earthquake which struck the
island on Tuesday, January 12, 2010
WHEREAS, This Legislative Body recognizes the epic devastation that has
been caused by the natural disaster that hit Haiti, and the far-reaching
loss of life and damage that has been sustained by the victims of this
tragedy; and
WHEREAS, On Tuesday, January 12, 2010, the most powerful earthquake in
200 years shook the island of Haiti, leaving thousands dead, nearly
three million homeless, many orphaned, and untold thousands still unac-
counted for; and
WHEREAS, This horrific 7.0 Richter scale earthquake has destroyed
schools, hospitals, government offices, roads, bridges, and railways,
and left the island largely without telephone service, electricity, or
running water; and
WHEREAS, This natural disaster will go down in history as one of worst
the world has ever experienced; without warning, much of the island was
reduced to rubble, destroying the lives and livelihoods of millions; and
WHEREAS, The passing days and weeks will further reveal the enormity
of this tragedy and the widespread destruction of buildings, businesses
and lives; and
WHEREAS, On behalf of the people of the State of New York, the members
of this Legislative Body offer their deepest condolences to the families
and loved ones of those who were killed or injured, and pledge their
heartfelt support through this time of grief, sorrow, and rebuilding;
and
WHEREAS, There are more than 230,000 people of Haitian origin living
in New York State, including approximately 122,000 in New York City
alone; the Haitian presence, particularly in Brooklyn, has positively
impacted many neighborhoods, and has led to the creation of several
vibrant Haitian American community institutions and organizations; and
WHEREAS, The community of the State of New York is greatly enriched by
the culture, traditions, and contributions of the many Haitian Americans
now living in our great State, many of whom are immediately making their
way there to search for family members and aid in rescue and relief
efforts; and
WHEREAS, At this time of devastation and turmoil, New Yorkers, along
with people across the United States and around the world, share their
grief and their concern for the safety and welfare of the victims and
their future; and
WHEREAS, Now, as New Yorkers, Americans and the family of Nations
continue to help the people of Haiti in their struggle back from chaos
to order and the rebuilding of their lives, it is appropriate to pause
to reflect on this catastrophe, to profoundly mourn the tragic loss of
life and livelihood, and to applaud all those who have offered, and who
will continue to provide the aid and support which will be needed, not
only immediately but for many years to come; now, therefore, be it
RESOLVED, That this Legislative Body pause in its deliberations to
express sincere, heartfelt condolences to the people of Haiti in wake of
the devastating earthquake, and to honor the memories of all those who
lost their lives, remember the survivors, and praise all those who are
coming to their assistance.