LEGISLATIVE RESOLUTION memorializing Governor Andrew M. Cuomo to
proclaim June 2014, as Immigrant Heritage Month in the State of New York

WHEREAS, Generations of immigrants from every corner of the globe have
built our country's economy and created the unique character of our
nation and state; and
WHEREAS, Immigrants continue to grow businesses, innovate, strengthen
our economy and create jobs in New York State; and
WHEREAS, Immigrants have provided the United States of America and New
York State with unique social and cultural influence, fundamentally
enriching the extraordinary character of each; and
WHEREAS, Immigrants constitute a vital segment not only in our State's
community and economic affairs, but also our State's democracy; and
WHEREAS, Immigrants comprise more than a quarter of our State's work-
force and for that reason the care and well-being of these individuals
is not only a priority for this body, but a necessity for the economic
health of this state; and
WHEREAS, Immigrants account for nearly a third of New York's economic
output in metropolitan areas and produce more than a fifth of New York's
gross domestic product; and
WHEREAS, Foreign-born students seeking educational opportunities in
New York contribute billions of dollars to the state in their journey to
success; and
WHEREAS, Immigrants have been tireless leaders not only in securing
their own rights and access to equal opportunity, but have also
campaigned to create a fairer and more just society for all Americans;
and
WHEREAS, Despite these countless contributions, the role of immigrants
in building and enriching our nation has frequently been overlooked and
undervalued throughout our history and continuing to the present day;
and
WHEREAS, It is imperative that there be greater public awareness and
increased recognition of the contributions of immigrant communities 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 2014, as Immigrant
Heritage Month in the State of New York; and be it further
RESOLVED, That copies of this Resolution, suitably engrossed, be tran-
smitted to The Honorable Andrew M. Cuomo, Governor of the State of New
York, and to the events commemorating Immigrant Heritage Month through-
out New York State.