Assembly Resolution No. 1526
BY: M. of A. Rules (Forrest)
MEMORIALIZING Governor Kathy Hochul to proclaim
June 20, 2026, 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 concerns, and in keeping with its
time-honored traditions, it is the intent of this Legislative Body to
memorialize Governor Kathy Hochul to proclaim Saturday, June 20, 2026,
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 117 million displaced people who have
been forced from their homes worldwide, more than any other time in
recorded history; this number includes over 42.5 million refugees and
8.42 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
add to the economic strength and cultural richness of our communities;
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, Refugees who enter the United States and the State of New
York often integrate quickly and become self-sufficient by paying taxes,
supporting local commerce, joining the workforce, and providing jobs;
and
WHEREAS, There continues 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, 2026, 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.
