Senate Resolution No. 2583
BY: Senator KAVANAGH
COMMEMORATING the Asian American community's
celebration of the Lunar New Year, the Year of the
Rat, on January 25, 2020
WHEREAS, With due cause and proper resolve, this legislative body
honors the Asian-American community of the State of New York as it
celebrates the Lunar New Year in the Year of the Rat, beginning on
January 25, 2020; and
WHEREAS, According to legend, the Jade Emperor held a race to
determine the 12 animals to represent the zodiac with the cyclical order
determined by their finishing position; and
WHEREAS, It is said that people take on characteristics based upon
the animal of their birth year, and those born in the Year of the Rat
are said to be characterized by their intelligence and charm, as well as
their optimistic and ambitious nature; and
WHEREAS, The Lunar New Year is the most significant and popular
Asian festival and exemplifies the many diverse traditions of
Asian-Americans; and
WHEREAS, Asian-Americans across the State will wear red, light
firecrackers and make other loud noises, in accord with ancient legend
in which such activities were thought to chase away the wild beast Nian,
who would attack ancient villages at the outset of the New Year; and
WHEREAS, It is cause for great celebration in the Asian-American
community that public schools in New York City now recognize the Lunar
New Year as a holiday, acknowledging the festival's widespread
observance across the city; now, therefore, be it
RESOLVED, That this Legislative Body pause in its deliberations to
commemorate the Asian-American community's celebration of the Lunar New
Year, the Year of the Rat, on January 25, 2020; and be it further
RESOLVED, That copies of this Resolution, suitably engrossed, be
transmitted to distinguished members of the Asian-American community.
