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.
