Senate Resolution No. 822

BY: Senator THOMAS

CONDEMNING the ruthless acts of terrorism in
Christchurch, New Zealand, and mourning the tragic
loss of life and injury to its Muslim community

WHEREAS, This Legislative Body is moved to condemn the ruthless acts
of terrorism in Christchurch, New Zealand, and to mourn the tragic loss
of life and injury to its Muslim community; and

WHEREAS, On Friday, March 15, 2019, an assailant opened fire and
victimized people gathering for Friday prayer at the Linwood Mosque and
Al Noor Mosque, located in Christchurch, New Zealand; and

WHEREAS, During 36 minutes of terror, the gunman killed 50 innocent
worshippers; in addition, 34 more victims are currently being treated
for injuries sustained during the horrific attack; and

WHEREAS, Two police officers, one of them armed with only a handgun,
chased and arrested the gunman who had explosives in his car and was
planning a third attack on that day; and

WHEREAS, Many of the victims had moved to New Zealand to seek better
lives in a country known for its beauty, friendliness and safety; among
the victims were engineers, business owners, students, a child and a
goalkeeper for the national futsal (soccer) team; and

WHEREAS, This Legislative Body, representing the people of the State
of New York, will never condone Islamophobia and/or any form of
religious persecution or bigotry; and

WHEREAS, This great Empire State is made up of thousands of citizens
who identify themselves as Muslim, a community made up of many diverse
beliefs and cultures, and both immigrants and native-born New Yorkers;
and

WHEREAS, New York has always provided a safe harbor for people
fleeing persecution and threat; hateful and intolerant acts against
Muslims, or those perceived to be Muslim, are contrary to New York
State's values of acceptance, welcoming, and fellowship with those of
all faiths, beliefs, and cultures; and

WHEREAS, The people of the State of New York stand steadfast in
their solidarity with the Christchurch Muslim community, the people of
New Zealand, and resolute Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern, all of whom
mourn this senseless act of terrorism, and vow to always keep the
memories of their loved ones in their hearts; now, therefore, be it

RESOLVED, That this Legislative Body pause in its deliberations to
condemn the ruthless acts of terrorism in Christchurch, New Zealand, and
to mourn the tragic loss of life and injury to its Muslim community; and
be it further

RESOLVED, That copies of this Resolution, suitably engrossed, be
transmitted to Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern and the Muslim community of
Christchurch, New Zealand.