K 678: Commemorating the 157th Anniversary of La Nacional-Spanish Benevolent Society, the oldest Spanish cultural institution in the United States

 Assembly Resolution No. 678 BY: M. of A. Glick COMMEMORATING the 157th Anniversary of La Nacional - Spanish Benevolent Society, the oldest Spanish cultural institution in the United States WHEREAS, It is the custom of this Legislative Body to recognize and pay tribute to those organizations of high purpose and worthy accomplishment whose endeavors have faithfully served the welfare of the citizens of the 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 commemorate the 157th Anniversary of La Nacional - Spanish Benevolent Society, the oldest Spanish cultural institution in the United States; and WHEREAS, Since its foundation in 1868, La Nacional has opened its doors to Spanish speaking immigrants, acting as a support system and home in the new world, though Spanish immigration has declined, La Nacional maintains the legacy of its founders; and WHEREAS, La Nacional is now celebrating its centennial at 239 West 14th Street in New York City, New York; the then president of La Nacional and owner of La Prensa, the oldest Spanish Language Newspaper in the United States, Jose Camprubi, purchased the location a hundred years ago to ensure that the non-profit organization continue to promote Spanish and Hispanic culture; and WHEREAS, Based in the heart of what is colloquially known as 'Little Spain', La Nacional serves as a hub for Spanish culture; and WHEREAS, La Nacional is committed to celebrating Spanish identity, through food, art, music, and mutual connection, and each week, La Nacional holds events exposing New Yorkers to the diversity of Spanish culture, acting as a hub for Spanish and Hispanic American life in New York; and WHEREAS, Operating as a space for cultural exchange and expression, La Nacional continues to serve as a meeting ground for thought leaders, poets and artists; and WHEREAS, La Nacional at 239 West 14th street, is also home to New York's oldest Spanish restaurant, also celebrating 100 years of serving up traditional Spanish food and introducing the city to the richness of Spanish Cuisine; and WHEREAS, La Nacional has taken on the responsibility of preserving Spanish culture and ensuring its vitality into the future, while honoring the society's history; now, therefore, be it RESOLVED, That this Legislative Body pauses in its deliberations to commemorate the 157th Anniversary of La Nacional - Spanish Benevolent Society, the oldest Spanish cultural institution in the United States; and be it further RESOLVED, That a copy of this Resolution, suitably engrossed, be transmitted to La Nacional - Spanish Benevolent Society.