Senate Resolution No. 2607

BY: Senator MYRIE

RECOGNIZING the 24th Anniversary of Black and
Afro-Costa Rican Culture Day on August 31, 2022

WHEREAS, It is the sense of this Legislative Body to pay tribute to
those of true purpose and worthy accomplishment who foster a spirit of
community and service and, simultaneously, work diligently to preserve
their rich cultural heritage; and

WHEREAS, Attendant to such concern and in full accord with its
long-standing traditions, this Legislative Body is justly proud to
recognize the 24th Anniversary of Black and Afro-Costa Rican Culture Day
on August 31, 2022; and

WHEREAS, Black and Afro-Costa Rican Culture Day was established to
promote the contributions of the African diaspora in Costa Rica, and to
eliminate all forms of discrimination against people of African descent;
and

WHEREAS, A non-mandatory pay holiday in Costa Rica, this vital day
is observed on August 31st, though the date of the official holiday will
be the following Sunday after August 31st; and

WHEREAS, In August of 2021, the National Assembly deputies approved,
in the first debate, a bill to declare August 31st, the Day of the Black
Person and Afro-Costa Rican Culture, free for the working population;
and

WHEREAS, The declaration as a non-compulsory holiday is a necessary
recognition and responds to a wide clamor of the Limonense population
with the purpose of consolidating this celebration; and

WHEREAS, In addition, this would allow broad participation of all
the inhabitants of the country in the activities carried out around this
date; and

WHEREAS, It is the practice of this Legislative Body to recognize
those important days of recognition which remind us of the rich and
diverse heritage of our great State and Nation; and

WHEREAS, It is duly fitting that all New Yorkers join in these
important celebrations of one of our State's most vibrant communities;
this much anticipated observance and its accompanying activities will
foster greater appreciation for Afro-Costa Rican culture and serve to
promote the spirit of cooperation that is characteristic of all citizens
of New York State; now, therefore, be it

RESOLVED, That this Legislative Body pause in its deliberations to
recognize the 24th Anniversary of Black and Afro-Costa Rican Culture Day
on August 31, 2022; and be it further

RESOLVED, That a copy of this Resolution, suitably engrossed, be
transmitted to the Consulate General of Costa Rica in New York.