K 609: Commemorating the 30th Anniversary of the Panamanian Parade to be held on October 11, 2025

 Assembly Resolution No. 609 BY: M. of A. Lucas COMMEMORATING the 30th Anniversary of the Panamanian Parade to be held on October 11, 2025 WHEREAS, It is the sense of this Legislative Body to recognize and honor events of cultural and historical significance which exemplify the rich diversity and enduring contributions of the communities of New York State; and WHEREAS, Attendant to such concern, and in full accord with its long-standing traditions, this Legislative Body is justly proud to commemorate the 30th Anniversary of the Panamanian Parade, to be held on October 11, 2025, in Brooklyn, New York, an event which celebrates the vibrant cultural heritage of Panama and the Panamanian-American community; and WHEREAS, The Panamanian Parade is recognized as the largest Panamanian parade in the world outside of the Republic of Panama, and is a cornerstone of Panama's pre-Independence Day festivities, marking the nation's historic separation from Colombia on November 3, 1903; and WHEREAS, First established in 1995 by Mr. Mauricio Alleyne and sponsored by the Day of Independence Committee of Panamanians in New York, Inc. (DICPNY), the parade was created to honor Panamanian culture, tradition, and folklore, while fostering awareness and appreciation for Panama's history and independence; and WHEREAS, Over the past 30 years, the Panamanian Parade has grown into a major cultural event in New York City, drawing tens of thousands of spectators and participants from across the tri-state area-including New York, New Jersey, and Connecticut-as well as dignitaries, elected officials, community leaders, and Panamanians from across the United States and Panama; and WHEREAS, The parade route, beginning at Franklin Avenue and Bergen Street and concluding with a vibrant street fair on Classon Avenue between Eastern Parkway and President Street, showcases the colors, sounds, and spirit of Panamanian and Panamanian-Caribbean identity, featuring traditional arts and crafts, folkloric displays, and the cuisine of Panama and Latin America; and WHEREAS, This annual celebration has become an iconic event, not only preserving the customs and stories of the Panamanian people, but also uniting people of all backgrounds in a message of community, friendship, love, and brotherhood; and WHEREAS, The mission of DICPNY includes the promotion of Panamanian heritage and pride, the celebration of culture through quality parades, festivals, performances, and cultural exhibits, and the development of community-based programs to encourage youth cultural education and engagement; and WHEREAS, The members and leadership of DICPNY are to be commended for their tireless commitment to cultural preservation, education, and the celebration of Panamanian identity, and for their efforts to foster multicultural understanding throughout the State of New York; and WHEREAS, The 30th Anniversary of the Panamanian Parade stands as a proud testament to the lasting cultural impact, unity, and contributions of the Panamanian-American community, and serves as a celebration of heritage, history, and the vibrant diversity that enriches the State of New York; now, therefore, be it RESOLVED, That this Legislative Body pause in its deliberations to commemorate the 30th Anniversary of the Panamanian Parade on October 11, 2025, in Brooklyn, New York, and to applaud the enduring legacy of the Day of Independence Committee of Panamanians in New York, Inc. and the Panamanian-American community for their outstanding contributions to the cultural fabric of this State; and be it further RESOLVED, That a copy of this Resolution, suitably engrossed, be transmitted to the Day of Independence Committee of Panamanians in New York, Inc.