J 1361: Commending Mohawk Valley Latino Association upon the occasion of hosting its Baile Y Cultura class series in conjunction with the observance of Hispanic Latino Heritage Month

 Senate Resolution No. 1361 BY: Senator GRIFFO COMMENDING Mohawk Valley Latino Association upon the occasion of hosting its "Baile Y Cultura" class series in conjunction with the observance of Hispanic Latino Heritage Month WHEREAS, It is the sense of this Legislative Body to set aside months which foster ethnic pride and enhance the profile of cultural diversity which strengthens the fabric of the communities of the great State of New York; and WHEREAS, Attendant to such concern, and in full accord with its long-standing traditions, this Legislative Body is justly proud to commend Mohawk Valley Latino Association upon the occasion of hosting its "Baile Y Cultura" class series in conjunction with the observance of Hispanic Latino Heritage Month, September 15 - October 15, 2025; and WHEREAS, Hispanic Heritage Month is a month-long celebration of Hispanic and Latino history and culture and serves to recognize the vast contributions made by such ethnic groups to the advancement of the United States at large; the important advocacy work, vibrant art, and popular and traditional foods are of the countless ways Hispanic and Latino culture has shaped our collective past and present; and WHEREAS, The Mohawk Valley Latino Association is a non-profit organization located in Utica, New York dedicated to providing culturally-sensitive services and support to the Latino community in the Mohawk Valley; it works to improve standards of living, increase community empowerment, honor diversity and culture, and nurture the minds of local youth; and WHEREAS, The classes offered during this celebratory month include family-friendly dance, salsa, bachata, steps and turns, partner work, sunset salsa, salsa calena, and range from novice to advanced levels, creating opportunities for a wide range of attendees; and WHEREAS, Today, people of Hispanic and Latin descent continue to advance communities throughout the country and hold many invaluable roles such as small business owners, veterans, teachers, public servants, artists, lawmakers, laborers, and beyond; and WHEREAS, Today, the Latino population in the United States is over 60 million, according to the U.S. Census Bureau, making up almost 19% of the total population and is the largest racial or ethnic group; Latinos continue to help fuel our economy and enrich our nation as entrepreneurs, athletes, artists, entertainers, scientists, public servants, and more, and deserve sufficient gratitude and commendation for their countless contributions to the advancement of our great State and nation; now, therefore, be it RESOLVED, That this Legislative Body pause in its deliberations to commend the Mohawk Valley Latino Association upon the occasion of hosting its "Baile Y Cultura" class series in conjunction with the observance of Hispanic Latino Heritage Month; and be it further RESOLVED, That a copy of this Resolution, suitably engrossed, be transmitted to The Mohawk Valley Latino Association.