K 667: Memorializing Governor Kathy Hochul to proclaim June 20, 2025, as World Refugee Day in the State of New York

 Assembly Resolution No. 667 BY: M. of A. Forrest MEMORIALIZING Governor Kathy Hochul to proclaim June 20, 2025, as World Refugee Day in the State of New York WHEREAS, It is the custom of this Legislative Body to recognize official days which are set aside to increase awareness of issues that affect the lives of citizens of the State of New York and the world; and WHEREAS, It is the sense of this Legislative Body to recognize and pay just tribute to the cultural heritage of the ethnic groups which comprise and contribute to the richness and diversity of the community of the State of New York; and WHEREAS, Attendant to such concern, and in keeping with its time-honored traditions, it is the intent of this Legislative Body to memorialize Governor Kathy Hochul to proclaim Thursday, June 20, 2025, as World Refugee Day in the State of New York; and WHEREAS, The United States should honor refugees around the globe and celebrate the strength and courage of people who have been forced to flee their home countries to escape conflict or persecution due to their race, religion, nationality, political opinion, or membership to a particular social group; and WHEREAS, There are more than 100 million displaced people who have been forced from their homes worldwide, more than any other time in recorded history; this number includes over 31 million refugees and 4.4 million asylum seekers; and WHEREAS, Welcoming the oppressed and persecuted is a core tenet of our country, as well as this great Empire State, which is home to a diverse population of refugees and immigrants who integrate and quickly become self-sufficient by paying taxes, supporting local commerce, joining the workforce, and providing jobs; and WHEREAS, The United States refugee resettlement program, which was established over 40 years ago, is a lifesaving pillar of global humanitarian efforts, advancing United States foreign policy goals, strengthening United States national security, and supporting regional stability; and WHEREAS, Resettlement to the United States is available for only the most vulnerable refugees who undergo rigorous security vetting and a medical screening process; and WHEREAS, There continue to be individuals and families in need of refuge and the support of the State of New York; now, therefore, be it RESOLVED, That this Legislative Body pause in its deliberations to memorialize Governor Kathy Hochul to proclaim June 20, 2025, as World Refugee Day; and be it further RESOLVED, That a copy of this Resolution, suitably engrossed, be transmitted to The Honorable Kathy Hochul, Governor of the State of New York.