LEGISLATIVE RESOLUTION commemorating the Bicentennial of the War of 1812

WHEREAS, It is the custom of this Legislative Body to commemorate
significant historical events which represent turning points in our
unique history which are indelibly etched in the saga of our great State
and Nation; and
WHEREAS, Attendant to such concern, and in full accord with its long-
standing traditions, it is the sense of this Legislative Body to commem-
orate the Bicentennial of the War of 1812; and
WHEREAS, The War of 1812 represents a seminal period in the process of
nation building in both the United States and Canada; and
WHEREAS, The cross-border Niagara region was at the frontline of the
War of 1812, with decisive battles both on land and lakes reporting the
greatest number of casualties and the longest continual period of
conflict; and
WHEREAS, The War of 1812 significantly affected civilian populations
on both sides of the Niagara River, especially when the flames of war
burned British-Canadian, American and Tuscarora settlements along the
Niagara River in December of 1813; and
WHEREAS, This conflict involved and impacted the Native
Americans/First Nations in both countries and throughout the Niagara
region; and
WHEREAS, Many citizens and soldiers acted with great gallantry and
personal sacrifice to protect their homes and countries; and
WHEREAS, The Niagara region maintains many cemeteries which are the
final resting place for combatants and veterans of the War of 1812; and
WHEREAS, The Niagara region retains three forts and numerous historic
and battle sites from the War of 1812; and
WHEREAS, From the death and destruction of the War of 1812 was born a
spirit of cooperation and a vision of Peace between the United States
and Canada; and
WHEREAS, The unparalleled cooperation, prosperity and friendship that
developed between the United States and Canada since the War of 1812
find their deepest roots and daily expressions in the cross-border
Niagara region; and
WHEREAS, The history of Niagara is rich in stories of peace and free-
dom, bi-national exchange, cooperative endeavor and neighborly goodwill;
and
WHEREAS, The bi-national coordination for this commemoration is being
led by the Niagara 1812 Bicentennial Legacy Council; and
WHEREAS, The Bicentennial of the War of 1812 offers an exceptional
opportunity to acknowledge and celebrate the true and lasting legacy of
200 Years of Peace along the Niagara and between the United States and
Canada; and
WHEREAS, It is the practice of this Legislative Body that when events
of such historic significance are brought to our attention, they should
be recognized by all the citizens of this great Empire State; now,
therefore, be it
RESOLVED, That this Legislative Body pause in its deliberations to
commemorate the Bicentennial of the War of 1812; and be it further
RESOLVED, That a copy of this Resolution, suitably engrossed, be tran-
smitted to the Niagara 1812 Bicentennial Legacy Council.