K 640: Memorializing Governor Kathy Hochul to proclaim November 29, 2025, as Palestinian American Day in the State of New York

 Assembly Resolution No. 640 BY: M. of A. Gallagher MEMORIALIZING Governor Kathy Hochul to proclaim November 29, 2025, as Palestinian American Day in the State of New York WHEREAS, It is the sense of this Legislative Body to recognize official days that are set aside to increase awareness and enhance the profile of cultural diversity which strengthens the fabric of the many 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 memorialize Governor Kathy Hochul to proclaim November 29, 2025, as Palestinian American Day in the State of New York; and WHEREAS, Palestinian Americans in New York State have contributed richly to the State's cultural, social, and economic fabric; and WHEREAS, Many of the first Palestinians immigrated to the United States of America in the 20th century, commonly fleeing conflict or seeking greater economic opportunities; and WHEREAS, It is estimated that 10,000 Palestinian Americans reside in the State of New York, with stronger concentrations of such individuals in communities such as Buffalo, Yonkers, and New York City- most notably, in Brooklyn; and WHEREAS, A community with a variety of cherished faiths, Palestinian Americans often bring with them their Muslims and Christian values-particularly Greek Orthodox and Roman Catholics-reflecting the religious diversity of Palestine itself; and WHEREAS, Palestinian American artists, filmmakers, and writers in New York have contributed to the broader cultural discourse through the creation of art on the topics of identity, displacement, and resistance, among many others; and WHEREAS, Palestinian Americans in New York are increasingly involved in advocacy, activism, and civil rights work, particularly related to Middle Eastern issues, anti-racism, and immigrant rights; those devoted to such hard work strive for a more equitable and just society, both at home and abroad, pushing for greater awareness of international human rights and domestic racial justice issues; and WHEREAS, Many Palestinian Americans have excelled in higher education, both as students and scholars; New York-based Palestinian academics are respected for their contributions to fields such as Middle Eastern studies, history, public health, and political science at institutions like CUNY, New York University, and Columbia University, among countless other fields of interest; and WHEREAS, Many Palestinian Americans run businesses ranging from small retail shops and restaurants to law firms and real estate companies; in areas like Bay Ridge, Brooklyn - sometimes called "Little Palestine" - the influence is especially visible, with numerous Palestinian-owned stores and businesses serving their communities with passion and grace; and WHEREAS, The contributions of Palestinian Americans to the prosperity of New York State and the United States at large are innumerable and invaluable; it is of utmost importance to stand proud in recognizing the humanity, existence, and importance of the Palestinian people and their contributions, domestically and internationally; and WHEREAS, It is with great pride that this Legislative Body welcome esteemed Palestinian American guests of honor to the Legislative Chambers in Albany for special recognition; these notable individuals-successful businesspersons, devoted advocates, and cherished community members alike-contribute to our shared societal values and common interests and thusly merit the high praise of the citizenry of this great Empire State; and WHEREAS, Palestinian Americans have added to the multicultural richness of New York State through entrepreneurship, the arts, civic engagement, and academia; while facing distinct challenges, these distinguished individuals continue to foster cultural pride and solidarity, both within their communities and in the broader struggle for justice and equity, surely deserving the commendation of this great State; now, therefore, be it RESOLVED, That this Legislative Body pause in its deliberations to memorialize Governor Kathy Hochul to proclaim November 29, 2025, as Palestinian American Day in the State of New York; and be it further RESOLVED, That copies of this Resolution, suitably engrossed, be transmitted to The Honorable Kathy Hochul, Governor of the State of New York; and the aforementioned distinguished guests of honor.