Senate Resolution No. 1584

BY: Senator THOMAS

CELEBRATING Holi, an ancient Hindu Spring Festival

WHEREAS, It is the sense of this Legislative Body, in keeping with
its time-honored traditions, to recognize and pay tribute to those
events which foster ethnic pride and enhance the profile of cultural
diversity which strengthens the fabric of the communities of New York
State; and

WHEREAS, This Legislative Body is justly proud to celebrate Holi, an
ancient Hindu Spring Festival; and

WHEREAS, Holi is an ancient Hindu Spring Festival, also known as the
Festival of Colors, which celebrates fertility, color, love, and the
triumph of good over evil; and

WHEREAS, The Festival signifies the coming of spring, the joy of
friendship, and equality for all; and

WHEREAS, The colored powders used in Holi represent love, happiness,
and the freedom to live vibrantly, which are all principles shared and
promoted by the Caribbean Equality Project (CEP); and

WHEREAS, The origins of the festival can be found in various legends
in Hindu mythology, one of which tells the story of a demon, Holika, and
her brother, King Hiranyakashipu; on the night before Holi, bonfires are
lit to signify the burning of Holika and the victory of good over evil;
and

WHEREAS, This year, Holi begins on Thursday, March 17th and ends on
Friday, March 18th; the timing of Holi depends on the moon, meaning the
date of the event can vary, although it usually occurs in March to mark
the end of winter; and

WHEREAS, It is the intent of this Legislative Body to recognize and
commend events which symbolize the historical, social and cultural
development of this great State and embody the spirit of the principles
upon which this Nation was founded; now, therefore, be it

RESOLVED, That this Legislative Body pause in its deliberations to
celebrate Holi, an ancient Hindu Spring Festival.