LEGISLATIVE RESOLUTION commemorating the 32nd Anniversary of the Inde-
pendence of St. Lucia

WHEREAS, It is the sense of this Legislative Body to recognize and pay
just tribute to the cultural heritage of the ethnic groups which
comprise and contribute to the richness and diversity of the community
of the State of New York; and
WHEREAS, Attendant to such concern, and in keeping with its time-ho-
nored traditions, it is the intent of this Legislative Body to commem-
orate the 32nd Anniversary of the Independence of St. Lucia; and
WHEREAS, The people of this great State and nation and St. Lucia enjoy
a deep and abiding relationship rooted in kinship and culture; and
WHEREAS, St. Lucia, West Indies, hosts its Independence Day every year
on February 22nd; and
WHEREAS, It is said that the island of St. Lucia was first discovered
by Christopher Columbus in 1502; later in the 17th century, the English
attempted to colonize the island only to be fought off by the Carib
inhabitants; however, France succeeded in establishing a settlement in
the mid-1600s; and
WHEREAS, The island was exchanged many times between the French and
English until the end of the Napoleonic Wars (1814), when it was defin-
itively given to Great Britain; and
WHEREAS, Between 1958 - 1962, St. Lucia joined the West Indies Feder-
ation and progressed towards self-governing status in 1967; it acquired
its full independence in 1979; and
WHEREAS, The 32nd Anniversary of St. Lucia's Independence provides an
opportunity to recognize the significance of their contributions to the
quality and character of life, and, through events and activities, for
all people to gain a greater appreciation of St. Lucian history and
traditions, and of the role St. Lucians have played, and will continue
to play, in our society; and
WHEREAS, This Legislative Body is pleased to have this opportunity to
recognize such events of significance which foster ethnic pride and
exemplify the cultural diversity that represents and strengthens the
fabric of the people and the State of New York; now, therefore, be it
RESOLVED, That this Legislative Body pause in its deliberations to
commemorate the 32nd Anniversary of the Independence of St. Lucia.