LEGISLATIVE RESOLUTION commemorating the 48th Anniversary of the Inde-
pendence of Guyana

WHEREAS, It is the sense of this Legislative Body to recognize and pay
just tribute to the cultural heritage of the ethnic groups which
comprise and contribute to the richness and diversity of the community
of the State of New York; and
WHEREAS, Attendant to such concern, and in keeping with its time-ho-
nored traditions, it is the intent of this Legislative Body to commem-
orate the 48th Anniversary of the Independence of Guyana; and
WHEREAS, The people of this great State and nation and Guyana enjoy a
deep and abiding relationship rooted in kinship and culture; and
WHEREAS, Independence Day is a significant public holiday in Guyana;
it is celebrated on May 26th every year and it is the day when the coun-
try attained its independence in 1966 when British Dominion over Guyana
ended; and
WHEREAS, The European voyagers discovered Guyana in 1498; as a result,
the history of the country dates back to over 500 years; its history is
interrupted by combats wrestled and triumphed, through properties lost
and recovered since the French, Spanish, Dutch and British settlers
battled for hundreds of years to occupy this territory; and
WHEREAS, The British Empire ultimately was able to take control of
Guyana in 1814; the country attained its well-deserved independence from
the British rulers on May 26, 1966; and
WHEREAS, In gaining her independence, Guyana today is a nation of
750,000 people that is the only English-speaking nation in South Ameri-
ca; its citizens trace their roots across the Caribbean and India; and
WHEREAS, The 48th Anniversary of Guyana's Independence provides an
opportunity to recognize the significance of their contributions to the
quality and character of life, and, through events and activities, for
all people to gain a greater appreciation of Guyanese history and tradi-
tions, and of the role Guyanese have played, and will continue to play,
in our society; and
WHEREAS, This Legislative Body is pleased to have this opportunity to
recognize such events of significance which foster ethnic pride and
exemplify the cultural diversity that represents and strengthens the
fabric of the people and the State of New York; now, therefore, be it
RESOLVED, That this Legislative Body pause in its deliberations to
commemorate the 48th Anniversary of the Independence of Guyana.