Assembly Resolution No. 2127
BY: M. of A. Raga
COMMEMORATING the 199th Anniversary of Bolivian
Independence Day to be celebrated on August 6, 2024
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
long-standing traditions, it is the intent of this Legislative Body to
commemorate the 199th Anniversary of Bolivian Independence Day to be
celebrated on August 6, 2024; and
WHEREAS, Bolivian Independence Day is celebrated annually on August
6th, commemorating the signing of a Declaration of Independence from
Spain on August 6, 1825, after approximately 300 years of Spanish rule;
and
WHEREAS, The Bolivian War of Independence lasted from 1809-1825,
involving the regions of Peru, Upper Peru, the Colonies, and Spain; in
1817, the Viceroyalty of Peru retained power over these regions; and
WHEREAS, General Simon Bolivar began to free Colombia and Venezuela
from Spain's power; in 1822, he commissioned Antonio Jose de Sucre to
aid in the Battle of Pichincha in the region of Ecuador; together, they
defeated Spanish forces in various battles, victoriously securing
independence for Peru; and
WHEREAS, Nearly one year later, in tribute to General Simon Bolivar,
the Republic of Bolivia was founded on August 6, 1825; and
WHEREAS, To honor the triumphs of both General Simon Bolivar and
Antonio Jose de Sucre, a new Constitutional Congress was established,
and both courageous men served as Bolivia's first and second Presidents,
respectively; and
WHEREAS, Some of these traditions include El Grito de Libertad,
known as the Cry of Freedom, commencing with the ringing of bells at
midnight and congregations of Bolivians chanting, "Viva Bolivia!" ("Long
live Bolivia!") throughout the towns; and
WHEREAS, Customary folk dances, which display reverence to Bolivia's
roots, European influences, and African heritage, are performed; the
mixture of customs, languages, and societies of many cultures, including
the Aymara, Quechua, Afro-Bolivian, and Mestizo peoples, are honored by
the Bolivian population; and
WHEREAS, Bolivian Independence Day affords the Bolivian-American
community an opportunity to honor and celebrate the culture and
traditions which have been introduced to New York State; through
numerous festivities, these proud people share their celebratory
practices with other communities within the State; and
WHEREAS, In New York State, Bolivians express their folklore and
traditions through carnivals, fireworks, and the Hispanic Day Parade;
dance groups demonstrate ancient tales and legends through their
performances; and
WHEREAS, Additionally, food, art, clothing, and music portray
Bolivia's rich heritage; the Bombin hat, Caporales dance, Mestizo
Baroque art, Saltenas empanadas, and Zampona flute are represented at
numerous events and celebrations in New York City; and
WHEREAS, Bolivia's contributions to our great State of New York are
invaluable and should be cherished and extolled; it is the
conglomeration of many different cultures that makes this State and this
Nation so unique and exceptional; and
WHEREAS, This Legislative Body is pleased to have this opportunity
to recognize such events of significance which foster ethnic pride and
exemplify the cultural diversity that represents and strengthens the
fabric of the people and the State of New York; now, therefore, be it
RESOLVED, That this Legislative Body pause in its deliberations to
commemorate the 199th Anniversary of Bolivian Independence Day to be
celebrated on August 6, 2024; and be it further
RESOLVED, That copies of this Resolution, suitably engrossed, be
transmitted to the esteemed Bolivian organizations in the State of New
York.
