Assembly Resolution No. 609

BY: M. of A. Lucas

COMMEMORATING the 30th Anniversary of the
Panamanian Parade to be held on October 11, 2025

WHEREAS, It is the sense of this Legislative Body to recognize and
honor events of cultural and historical significance which exemplify the
rich diversity and enduring contributions of the communities 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
commemorate the 30th Anniversary of the Panamanian Parade, to be held on
October 11, 2025, in Brooklyn, New York, an event which celebrates the
vibrant cultural heritage of Panama and the Panamanian-American
community; and

WHEREAS, The Panamanian Parade is recognized as the largest
Panamanian parade in the world outside of the Republic of Panama, and is
a cornerstone of Panama's pre-Independence Day festivities, marking the
nation's historic separation from Colombia on November 3, 1903; and

WHEREAS, First established in 1995 by Mr. Mauricio Alleyne and
sponsored by the Day of Independence Committee of Panamanians in New
York, Inc. (DICPNY), the parade was created to honor Panamanian
culture, tradition, and folklore, while fostering awareness and
appreciation for Panama's history and independence; and

WHEREAS, Over the past 30 years, the Panamanian Parade has grown
into a major cultural event in New York City, drawing tens of thousands
of spectators and participants from across the tri-state area-including
New York, New Jersey, and Connecticut-as well as dignitaries, elected
officials, community leaders, and Panamanians from across the United
States and Panama; and

WHEREAS, The parade route, beginning at Franklin Avenue and Bergen
Street and concluding with a vibrant street fair on Classon Avenue
between Eastern Parkway and President Street, showcases the colors,
sounds, and spirit of Panamanian and Panamanian-Caribbean identity,
featuring traditional arts and crafts, folkloric displays, and the
cuisine of Panama and Latin America; and

WHEREAS, This annual celebration has become an iconic event, not
only preserving the customs and stories of the Panamanian people, but
also uniting people of all backgrounds in a message of community,
friendship, love, and brotherhood; and

WHEREAS, The mission of DICPNY includes the promotion of Panamanian
heritage and pride, the celebration of culture through quality parades,
festivals, performances, and cultural exhibits, and the development of
community-based programs to encourage youth cultural education and
engagement; and

WHEREAS, The members and leadership of DICPNY are to be commended
for their tireless commitment to cultural preservation, education, and

the celebration of Panamanian identity, and for their efforts to foster
multicultural understanding throughout the State of New York; and

WHEREAS, The 30th Anniversary of the Panamanian Parade stands as a
proud testament to the lasting cultural impact, unity, and contributions
of the Panamanian-American community, and serves as a celebration of
heritage, history, and the vibrant diversity that enriches the State of
New York; now, therefore, be it

RESOLVED, That this Legislative Body pause in its deliberations to
commemorate the 30th Anniversary of the Panamanian Parade on October 11,
2025, in Brooklyn, New York, and to applaud the enduring legacy of the
Day of Independence Committee of Panamanians in New York, Inc. and the
Panamanian-American community for their outstanding contributions to the
cultural fabric of this State; and be it further

RESOLVED, That a copy of this Resolution, suitably engrossed, be
transmitted to the Day of Independence Committee of Panamanians in New
York, Inc.