Assembly Resolution No. 640

BY: M. of A. Gallagher

MEMORIALIZING Governor Kathy Hochul to proclaim
November 29, 2025, as Palestinian American Day in
the State of New York

WHEREAS, It is the sense of this Legislative Body to recognize
official days that are set aside to increase awareness and enhance the
profile of cultural diversity which strengthens the fabric of the many
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
memorialize Governor Kathy Hochul to proclaim November 29, 2025, as
Palestinian American Day in the State of New York; and

WHEREAS, Palestinian Americans in New York State have contributed
richly to the State's cultural, social, and economic fabric; and

WHEREAS, Many of the first Palestinians immigrated to the United
States of America in the 20th century, commonly fleeing conflict or
seeking greater economic opportunities; and

WHEREAS, It is estimated that 10,000 Palestinian Americans reside in
the State of New York, with stronger concentrations of such individuals
in communities such as Buffalo, Yonkers, and New York City- most
notably, in Brooklyn; and

WHEREAS, A community with a variety of cherished faiths, Palestinian
Americans often bring with them their Muslims and Christian
values-particularly Greek Orthodox and Roman Catholics-reflecting the
religious diversity of Palestine itself; and

WHEREAS, Palestinian American artists, filmmakers, and writers in
New York have contributed to the broader cultural discourse through the
creation of art on the topics of identity, displacement, and resistance,
among many others; and

WHEREAS, Palestinian Americans in New York are increasingly involved
in advocacy, activism, and civil rights work, particularly related to
Middle Eastern issues, anti-racism, and immigrant rights; those devoted
to such hard work strive for a more equitable and just society, both at
home and abroad, pushing for greater awareness of international human
rights and domestic racial justice issues; and

WHEREAS, Many Palestinian Americans have excelled in higher
education, both as students and scholars; New York-based Palestinian
academics are respected for their contributions to fields such as Middle
Eastern studies, history, public health, and political science at
institutions like CUNY, New York University, and Columbia University,
among countless other fields of interest; and

WHEREAS, Many Palestinian Americans run businesses ranging from
small retail shops and restaurants to law firms and real estate
companies; in areas like Bay Ridge, Brooklyn - sometimes called "Little

Palestine" - the influence is especially visible, with numerous
Palestinian-owned stores and businesses serving their communities with
passion and grace; and

WHEREAS, The contributions of Palestinian Americans to the
prosperity of New York State and the United States at large are
innumerable and invaluable; it is of utmost importance to stand proud in
recognizing the humanity, existence, and importance of the Palestinian
people and their contributions, domestically and internationally; and

WHEREAS, It is with great pride that this Legislative Body welcome
esteemed Palestinian American guests of honor to the Legislative
Chambers in Albany for special recognition; these notable
individuals-successful businesspersons, devoted advocates, and cherished
community members alike-contribute to our shared societal values and
common interests and thusly merit the high praise of the citizenry of
this great Empire State; and

WHEREAS, Palestinian Americans have added to the multicultural
richness of New York State through entrepreneurship, the arts, civic
engagement, and academia; while facing distinct challenges, these
distinguished individuals continue to foster cultural pride and
solidarity, both within their communities and in the broader struggle
for justice and equity, surely deserving the commendation of this great
State; now, therefore, be it

RESOLVED, That this Legislative Body pause in its deliberations to
memorialize Governor Kathy Hochul to proclaim November 29, 2025, as
Palestinian 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 Kathy Hochul, Governor of the State of New
York; and the aforementioned distinguished guests of honor.