Assembly Resolution No. 526

BY: M. of A. Rivera

MEMORIALIZING Governor Andrew M. Cuomo to proclaim
June 11, 2019, as Gang Free Zone Day in the State of
New York

WHEREAS, It is the custom of this Legislative Body to recognize
official weeks that are set aside to increase awareness of serious
illnesses that affect the lives of citizens of New York State; and

WHEREAS, Attendant to such concern, and in full accord with its
long-standing traditions, this Legislative Body is justly proud to
memorialize Governor Andrew M. Cuomo to proclaim June 11, 2019, as Gang
Free Zone Day in the State of New York; and

WHEREAS, Gang violence, according to law enforcement agencies has
consistently been the single largest contributor to the overall
devastating crime rates in the State of New York; and

WHEREAS, Since gang violence is the single most urgent public safety
challenge faced by New Yorkers, especially those in low income
neighborhoods, grassroots preventive efforts must then start with
addressing this serious issue; and

WHEREAS, While the Big Apple remains the safest big city in the
nation, gang violence has continued to rob many families of their loved
ones, devastate the communities, and deprive New Yorkers of any
sustainable socioeconomic progress; and

WHEREAS, To counter this persistent gang proliferation, light should
be brought to this great concern facing our communities; and

WHEREAS, This Legislative Body, representing the people of the State
of New York, supports that restriction of gang activities in certain
venues, such as: houses of worship, educational parameters, sports,
entertainment, eatery, recreational, religious, political, and community
venues, funeral homes, political and community forums, senior centers,
NYCHA housing developments, government and municipal, health, medical
facilities, bodegas, business establishments, rallies and parades,
precincts and law enforcement facilities, and commercial and non for
profit establishments must be vigorously enforced and violators
punished; and

WHEREAS, It is imperative that there be greater awareness of this
serious issue, and more must be done to increase activity 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 11, 2019, as Gang
Free Zone Day in the State of New York; and be it further

RESOLVED, That a copy of this Resolution, suitably engrossed, be
transmitted to The Honorable Andrew M. Cuomo, Governor of the State of
New York.