Assembly Resolution No. 20

BY: M. of A. Solages

COMMEMORATING the 215th Anniversary of the
Independence of Haiti from France

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-honored traditions, it is the intent of this Legislative Body to
commemorate the 215th Anniversary of the Independence of Haiti from
France; and

WHEREAS, On January 1, 1804, after a prolonged struggle, Haiti
proclaimed its independence from France, becoming the second independent
state in the Western Hemisphere and the first free black republic in the
world; and

WHEREAS, After gaining its independence, Haiti was charged by France
what would have been $20 billion U.S. dollars today as reparations for
its independence; this debt was not fulfilled until 1922; and

WHEREAS, The United States did not acknowledge Haiti until 1862,
when Frederick Douglass visited to establish diplomatic relations; and

WHEREAS, The celebration of Haitian independence affirms the
culture, identity and self-esteem of a people; it honors a rich heritage
and illuminates Haitian history and tradition, as well as the spirit of
an indomitable people; and

WHEREAS, The people of this great State and Nation and Haiti enjoy a
deep and abiding relationship rooted in kinship and culture, and many
New Yorkers proudly trace their own roots to Haiti; and

WHEREAS, The Anniversary of the Independence of Haiti from France is
a time to celebrate the aspirations and values that have been shared
with Haitians for generations and to recognize the countless
contributions of Americans and New Yorkers of Haitian descent to every
aspect of society; and

WHEREAS, The State of New York is greatly enriched by its large
population of citizens of Haitian ancestry; and

WHEREAS, The 215th Anniversary of Haiti'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 Haitian history and
traditions, and of the role Haitian Americans 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 215th Anniversary of the Independence of Haiti from
France.