K 768: Celebrating Peruvian Gastronomy Weekend on August 23-24, 2025

 Assembly Resolution No. 768 BY: M. of A. Ramos CELEBRATING Peruvian Gastronomy Weekend on August 23-24, 2025 WHEREAS, It is the sense of this Legislative Body, in keeping with its time-honored traditions, to recognize and pay tribute to those events which foster ethnic pride and enhance the profile of cultural diversity which strengthens the fabric 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 celebrate Peruvian Gastronomy Weekend, August 23-24, 2025; and WHEREAS, SUMAQ 2025 will also take place during this same weekend at the Cradle of Aviation Museum in Garden City, New York; for 15 years, the SUMAQ Peruvian Food Festival has enticed Long Islanders and visitors with the tantalizing aromas of Peruvian Gastronomy; and WHEREAS, Under the luminous leadership of Director Vicky Diaz, the SUMAQ Peruvian Food Festival has become one of the most anticipated events of the year, attracting food enthusiasts from all over the United States; and WHEREAS, Peruvian cuisine reflects local practices and ingredients, including influences from the indigenous population including the Inca and cuisines brought in with immigrants from Europe (Spanish cuisine, Italian cuisine, German cuisine) and West Africa; and WHEREAS, Without the familiar ingredients from the home countries, immigrants modified their traditional cuisines by using ingredients available in Peru; the four traditional staples of Peruvian cuisine are corn, potatoes and other tubers, Amaranthaceaes (quinoa, kiniwa, kiwicha) and legumes (beans and lupins); the Spanish added rice, wheat and meats (beef, pork and chicken); and WHEREAS, Many traditional foods, such as quinoa, kiwicha, chili peppers, and several roots and tubers have increased in popularity in recent decades, reflecting a revival of interest in native Peruvian foods and culinary techniques; and WHEREAS, The Festival and APEGA, Peru's gastronomic association, strives to help diffuse Peruvian cuisine and culture in New York, and showcase the diversity of Peruvian gastronomy as well as talented chefs who are innovating and taking ancient flavors to a new level; over 25 food vendors will participate in this year's festival, offering the highest quality and variety in Peruvian food; and WHEREAS, Some of the 30 vendors include La Caja China de Juan Talledo and Tamales de Magaly Silva; chefs will share their talents and skills during cooking demonstrations; and WHEREAS, In addition to sampling delicious Peruvian food, festival attendees will also enjoy musical performances, Peruvian folk dancing, Salsa and Bachata lessons, artisan vendors and a kids show; and WHEREAS, A cherished event, the SUMAQ Peruvian Food Festival provides a uniquely warm environment that attracts all different types of people who come to taste the authenticity of Peruvian food and enjoy its heritage; and WHEREAS, It is the intent of this Legislative Body to recognize those important events which remind us of the rich and diverse heritage of our great State and Nation; and WHEREAS, Events which celebrate diversity and peace contribute to fulfilling our Nation's great legacy of equal opportunity for all, and do so profoundly enhance our shared commitment to freedom and justice; now, therefore, be it RESOLVED, That this Legislative Body pause in its deliberations to celebrate Peruvian Gastronomy Weekend, August 23-24, 2025; and be it further RESOLVED, That a copy of this Resolution, suitably engrossed, be transmitted to Vicky Diaz, Director, SUMAQ Peruvian Food Festival.