Assembly Resolution No. 44

BY: M. of A. Sayegh

MEMORIALIZING Governor Andrew M. Cuomo to proclaim
February 5, 2021, as Kashmir American Day in the
State of New York

WHEREAS, This Legislative Body is justly proud to memorialize
Governor Andrew M. Cuomo to proclaim February 5, 2021, as Kashmir
American Day in the State of New York, as it is to be observed by
Kashmiris statewide, celebrating the Kashmiri cultural identity; and

WHEREAS, The Kashmiri community has overcome adversity, shown
perseverance, and established themselves as one of the pillars of the
New York immigrant communities; and

WHEREAS, Kashmiri people living around the world speak the Koshur
language and practice their distinct and ancient rites of Islam,
Hinduism, and Sikhism; and in the recognition of their unique cultural
identity and storied history, which has its roots in the Himalayan
foothills and the Pir Panjal Range, helps to keep the Kashmiri identity
alive; and

WHEREAS, The State of New York endeavors to champion human rights
including the freedom of religion, movement, and expression for all
Kashmiri people, which are embedded within the United States
Constitution, through the recognition of diverse cultural, ethnic, and
religious identities; and

WHEREAS, New York State is a leader in terms of progress and social
justice; this Legislative Body acknowledges that this Resolution makes
New York the first State to recognize Kashmir American Day; and

WHEREAS, By consistently honoring Kashmiri cultural identity, it
provides both the American public with a greater awareness of their
struggles, and the Kashmiri diaspora community with a symbol of hope for
the future; now, therefore, be it

RESOLVED, That this Legislative Body pause in its deliberations to
memorialize Governor Andrew M. Cuomo to proclaim February 5, 2021, as
Kashmir American Day in the State of New York; and be it further

RESOLVED That copies of this Resolution, suitably engrossed, be
transmitted to The Honorable Andrew M. Cuomo, Governor of the State of
New York; and the American Pakistani Advocacy Group (APAG).