Assembly Resolution No. 144

BY: M. of A. Ra

MEMORIALIZING Governor Andrew M. Cuomo to proclaim
March 3, 2017, as Speech and Debate Education Day in
the State of New York

WHEREAS, It is the custom of this Legislative Body to recognize
official days that are set aside to increase awareness of significant
events that affect the education of the students in 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 Andrew M. Cuomo to proclaim March 3, 2017, as
Speech and Debate Education Day in the State of New York, in conjunction
with the observance of National Speech and Debate Education Day; and

WHEREAS, National Speech and Debate Education Day was established by
the National Speech & Debate Association; this vital event, in
conjunction with national and local partners, serves to promote better
instruction in speech and debate across all grade levels and highlights
the pivotal roles these abilities play in personal advocacy, social
movements, and public policy making; and

WHEREAS, Speech and debate education helps students develop
important skills in communication, critical thinking, creativity, and
collaboration through the practice of public speaking; participants
learn not only to analyze and express complex ideas effectively but also
to listen, concur, question, and dissent with reason and compassion; and

WHEREAS, Across the country, countless educators devote in-school,
after-school, and weekend time to supporting their students in speech
and debate practices and competitions; the example of hard work and
dedication they set has lasting, positive impact on their pupils; and

WHEREAS, The skills learned through speech and debate serve students
well throughout their lives, and this occasion presents a welcome
opportunity to recognize such instruction as an essential component of a
well-rounded curriculum; now, therefore, be it

RESOLVED, That this Legislative Body pause in its deliberations to
memorialize Governor Andrew M. Cuomo to proclaim March 3, 2017, as
Speech and Debate Education Day in the State of New York, in conjunction
with the observance of National Speech and Debate Education Day; and be
it further

RESOLVED, That a copy of this Resolution, suitably engrossed, be
transmitted to The Honorable Andrew M. Cuomo, Governor of the State of
New York.