Assembly Resolution No. 577

BY: M. of A. Lucas

COMMEMORATING the Month of May 2025, as the
celebration of Fiesta de la Etnia Negra (Black
Heritage Month) in Panama, and May 31, 2025, as Dia
de la Etnia Negra Nacional (National Black Heritage
Day), and honoring Afro-Panamanian contributions to
culture and society

WHEREAS, It is the custom of this Legislative Body to recognize and
celebrate the contributions of all cultural communities that have
enriched the social, economic, and cultural fabric of New York State;
and

WHEREAS, In the Republic of Panama, the month of May is celebrated
as Fiesta de la Etnia Negra (Black Heritage Month), culminating on May
31st, which is recognized as Dia de la Etnia Negra Nacional (National
Black Heritage Day), a day dedicated to honoring the African and
Antillean descendants whose labor, resilience, and cultural influences
have profoundly shaped Panama's history and society; and

WHEREAS, Dia de la Etnia Negra Nacional specifically marks the
arrival of Africans and Antilleans to Panama, celebrating the rich
cultural heritage they brought to the nation, including significant
contributions to music, dance, food, language, and traditions that
continue to thrive in Panamanian society today; and

WHEREAS, The Afro-Panamanian community consists of diverse groups,
including Afro-Colonials, descendants of enslaved people brought to
Panama during the colonial era, and Afro-Antilleans, descendants of West
Indian immigrants who arrived in Panama in the late 19th and early 20th
centuries, particularly during the construction of the Panama Canal; and

WHEREAS, Afro-Panamanians have made lasting contributions in areas
such as music, including the iconic fulia and bomba rhythms, art,
literature, religion, and politics, shaping the cultural landscape of
Panama and inspiring people globally; and

WHEREAS, Afro-Panamanian communities have had a major influence on
Panama's national identity, serving as a living testament to the
resilience and perseverance of African-descended peoples and their
enduring legacy in shaping the country's social and cultural fabric; and

WHEREAS, The celebration of Fiesta de la Etnia Negra in Panama is a
reflection of the strength, pride, and continued efforts to recognize
and uplift Afro-Panamanian heritage, while fostering understanding and
unity across all sectors of Panamanian society; and

WHEREAS, The Panamanian-American community in New York State has
continued to honor and celebrate the culture, heritage, and traditions
of Afro-Panamanians, recognizing the importance of promoting cultural
appreciation, education, and inclusion; and

WHEREAS, The recognition of Fiesta de la Etnia Negra and Dia de la
Etnia Negra Nacional provides an opportunity for all people to reflect

on the contributions of Afro-Panamanian communities and to foster a
broader dialogue on the importance of diversity, inclusion, and the rich
cultural tapestry that shapes Panama's present and future; now,
therefore, be it

RESOLVED, That this Legislative Body pause in its deliberations to
commemorate the Month of May 2025, as the celebration of Fiesta de la
Etnia Negra (Black Heritage Month) in Panama, and May 31, 2025, as Dia
de la Etnia Negra Nacional (National Black Heritage Day), and to honor
Afro-Panamian contributions to culture and society; and

RESOLVED, That this Legislative Body calls upon all New Yorkers to
celebrate and reflect on the achievements of Afro-Panamanian communities
and to recognize the profound impact that African and Antillean peoples
have had in shaping the heritage of Panama and the world; and be it
further

RESOLVED, That a copy of this Resolution, suitably engrossed, be
transmitted to the Panamanian-American community in New York State.