Assembly Resolution No. 1083

BY: M. of A. Jensen

MEMORIALIZING Governor Kathy Hochul to proclaim
September 4, 2026, as Taekwondo Day in the State of
New York

WHEREAS, It is the practice of this Legislative Body to acknowledge
and recognize the valuable activities that many citizens enjoy in this
great Empire 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 Kathy Hochul to proclaim Friday, September 4, 2026,
as Taekwondo Day in the State of New York; and

WHEREAS, International Taekwondo Day is recognized every year on
September 4th in honor of the day Taekwondo was officially accepted as a
core Olympic sport in 1994; and

WHEREAS, Taekwondo is a martial art that traces its origins to
ancient Korea, influenced by traditional martial art practices such as
Taekkyeon and Subak, with emphasis on discipline, balance, and powerful
kicking techniques; and

WHEREAS, In 1955, Korean martial art leaders agreed to unify various
schools and officially named the art Taekwondo, which means "the way of
the hand and the foot"; and

WHEREAS, The five tenets of Taekwondo are courtesy, integrity,
perseverance, self-control, and indomitable spirit; these qualities are
taught to individuals who chose to practice Taekwondo; and

WHEREAS, Taekwondo is more than simply a sport, participants in this
martial art also undergo important character-building exercises,
strengthening their respect, confidence, leadership, and discipline; and

WHEREAS, Taekwondo programs are designed for individuals from all
backgrounds, ensuring that any person can gain the lifelong skills and
personal growth that are associated with this sport; and

WHEREAS, Worldwide, Taekwondo is practiced by over 80 million
people, making it one of the most popular martial arts internationally;
and

WHEREAS, In celebration of Taekwondo Day, many schools plan to host
community-based self-defense programs and educational seminars; these
programs often focus on personal safety, confidence building,
anti-bullying awareness, and public well-being; now, therefore, be it

RESOLVED, That this Legislative Body pause in its deliberations to
memorialize Governor Kathy Hochul to proclaim September 4, 2026, as
Taekwondo 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 Kathy Hochul, Governor of the State of New
York.