Senate Resolution No. 1981

BY: Senator MAY

RECOGNIZING the observance of Ukrainian
Independence Day on August 24, 2022

WHEREAS, It is the sense of this Legislative Body to recognize that
the people of this State acknowledge significant days of historical
importance; the Independence of Ukraine is such an event; and

WHEREAS, This Legislative Body is justly proud to recognize the
observance of Ukrainian Independence Day on August 24, 2022; and

WHEREAS, The largest country in Europe, Ukraine has a population of
nearly 46 million people; on August 24, 1991, Ukraine declared its
independence from the Soviet Union, establishing a free, democratic
state; and

WHEREAS, The 30th Anniversary of Ukrainian's independence is an
occasion of great historical as well as emotional importance to
Ukrainian-Americans; many of them had taken part in the liberation war,
either on the battlefield or through other activities while living in
the United States in 1991; and

WHEREAS, In 2021, Ukraine celebrated its independence with three
days of events; a company from Lviv developed a special 30th Anniversary
logo and a new award known as the "National Legend" was announced, to be
presented in a ceremony on August 22nd; it was also announced that the
first Summit of the Crimean Platform would take place on August 23rd;
and

WHEREAS, Ukraine'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 Ukrainian history and traditions, and of the
role Ukrainian Americans have played, and will continue to play, in our
society; and

WHEREAS, The State of New York is greatly enriched by its large
population of citizens of Ukrainian ancestry, and recognizes the
accomplishments of the Ukrainian people around the world and commends
the integrity of the citizens of Ukraine and their perseverance; and

WHEREAS, As an integral part of the socio-economic and cultural
fabric of New York, Ukrainian-Americans continue to play a vital role in
promoting a multi-cultural and progressive environment for all
communities, contributing in numerous ways to its growth and prosperity;
and

WHEREAS, As of the 2000 United States Census, there were 892,922
Americans of full or partial Ukrainian decent; the New York City
Metropolitan area contains by far the largest Ukrainian community in the
United States; and

WHEREAS, The people of this great State and Nation and Ukraine enjoy
a deep and abiding relationship rooted in kinship and culture, and many

New Yorkers proudly trace their own roots to Ukraine; today, there are
approximately 80,000 Ukrainian Americans living in New York City alone;
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
recognize the observance of Ukrainian Independence Day on August 24,
2022; and be it further

RESOLVED, That a copy of this Resolution, suitably engrossed, be
transmitted to the members of the Ukrainian delegation.