Senate Resolution No. 1466 BY: Senator PARKER MEMORIALIZING Governor Kathy Hochul to proclaim August 14, 2022, as Pakistan Independence Day in the State of New York WHEREAS, It is the sense of this Legislative Body, in keeping with its time-honored traditions, to recognize and pay tribute to those who foster ethnic pride and enhance the profile of cultural diversity which strengthens the fabric of the communities of New York State; and WHEREAS, This Legislative Body is justly proud to memorialize Governor Kathy Hochul to proclaim August 14, 2022, as Pakistan Independence Day in the State of New York; and WHEREAS, Observed annually on the 14th of August, Pakistan Independence Day commemorates the day when Pakistan achieved independence and was declared a sovereign state following the end of the British Raj in 1947; and WHEREAS, Pakistan came into existence as a result of the Pakistan Movement, which aimed for the creation of an independent Muslim state in the north-western regions of British India via partition; the movement was led by the All-India Muslim League under the leadership of Muhammad Ali Jinnah; and WHEREAS, The event was brought forth by the Indian Independence Act of 1947, under which the British Raj gave independence to the Dominion of Pakistan which comprised West Pakistan (present-day Pakistan) and East Pakistan (now Bangladesh); and WHEREAS, In the Islamic calendar, the day of independence coincided with Ramadan 27, the eve of which, being Laylat al-Qadr, is regarded as sacred by Muslims; and WHEREAS, The main Independence Day ceremony takes place in Islamabad, where the national flag is hoisted at the Presidential and Parliament buildings; it is followed by the national anthem and live televised speeches by leaders; and WHEREAS, Furthermore, usual celebratory events and festivities for the day include flag-raising ceremonies, parades, cultural events, and the playing of patriotic songs; several award ceremonies are often held on this day, and Pakistanis hoist the national flag atop their homes or display it prominently on their vehicles and attire; and WHEREAS, Pakistan Independence Day provides an excellent means by which all New Yorkers can learn more about the rich Pakistani heritage, while fostering an appreciation for this ancient culture among future generations; and WHEREAS, This Legislative Body is proud to acknowledge various cultures of people who add to the overall diversity of our State and, on this occasion, we take the opportunity to recognize the contributions made by the Pakistani-American community and extend best wishes to all of its members as they hold appropriate ceremonies to commemorate this historic milestone; now, therefore, be it RESOLVED, That this Legislative Body pause in its deliberations to memorialize Governor Kathy Hochul to proclaim August 14, 2022, as Pakistan Independence Day in the State of New York; 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.