New York J 3567: Memorializing Governor Andrew M. Cuomo to proclaim February 21, 2018, as Mother Language Day in the State of New York

Bill Text

Senate Resolution No. 3567
Senator COMRIEBY:
LEGISLATIVE RESOLUTION memorializing Governor
Andrew M. Cuomo to proclaim February 21, 2018, as
Mother Language Day in the State of New York
It is the sense of this Legislative Body to recognize thatWHEREAS,
the quality and character of life in the communities across New York
State are reflective of the concerned and dedicated efforts of those
organizations and individuals that are devoted to the welfare of the
community and its citizenry; and
It is also the custom of this Legislative Body to recognizeWHEREAS,
official days that are set aside to increase awareness of issues that
affect the lives of citizens of New York State; and
Attendant to such concern, and in full accord with itsWHEREAS,
long-standing traditions, this Legislative Body is justly proud to
memorialize Governor Andrew M. Cuomo to proclaim February 21, 2018, as
Mother Language Day in the State of New York, in conjunction with the
observance of International Mother Language Day; and
International Mother Language Day is an observance heldWHEREAS,
annually on February 21 worldwide to promote awareness of linguistic and
cultural diversity and multilingualism; and
The date represents the day in 1952, when students fromWHEREAS,
different institutions such as Dhaka University, Jagannath University
and Dhaka Medical College demonstrating for recognition of their
language, Bangla, were shot and killed by police in Dhaka, the capital
of present-day Bangladesh; and
First announced on November 17, 1999, by the United NationsWHEREAS,
Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO),
International Mother Language Day is based on the premise that
linguistic and cultural diversity represent universal values which
strengthen the union and cohesion of societies; it has been observed
every year since its inaugural celebration in February of 2000; and
UNESCO sets the theme for each International MotherWHEREAS,
Language Day, and holds related events at its headquarters in Paris on
or around February 21 each year; and
Presented annually on International Mother Language Day,WHEREAS,
the Linguapax Prize recognizes and awards outstanding contributions in
the preservation of linguistic diversity, revitalization and
reactivation of linguistic communities, and the promotion of
multilingualism; and
On May 16, 2009, the United Nations General Assembly, in aWHEREAS,
resolution, called upon Member States to promote the preservation and
protection of all languages used by people of the world; and

Furthermore, by the same resolution, the General AssemblyWHEREAS,
proclaimed 2008 as the International Year of Languages, to promote unity
in diversity and international understanding, through multilingualism
and multiculturalism; and
Languages are the most powerful instruments of preservingWHEREAS,
and developing our tangible and intangible heritage and to develop
fuller awareness of linguistic cultural traditions throughout the world
to inspire solidarity based on understanding, tolerance and dialogue;
now, therefore, be it
That this Legislative Body pause in its deliberations toRESOLVED,
memorialize Governor Andrew M. Cuomo to proclaim February 21, 2018, as
Mother Language Day in the State of New York; and be it further
That a copy of this Resolution, suitably engrossed, beRESOLVED,
transmitted to The Honorable Andrew M. Cuomo, Governor of the State of
New York.