HR0794 102ND GENERAL ASSEMBLY

HR0794 LRB102 27031 LAW 38330 r

HOUSE RESOLUTION

WHEREAS, The first day of April is celebrated annually as the Assyrian New Year, also known as Kha b'Nissan or Akitu; and

WHEREAS, The Assyrian New Year is not only the first day of the new year but also marks the start of spring and serves as a symbol of revival; and

WHEREAS, According to the Assyrian Policy Institute, Illinois is home to more than 80,000 Assyrian Americans; and

WHEREAS, The Assyrian New Year serves to remind the State of Illinois of the many substantial contributions the Assyrian community has made to Illinois and the social fabric of our state; and

WHEREAS, In their various countries of origin, including Iraq, Syria, Turkey, and Iran, governing authorities historically infringed on the cultural and linguistic rights of Assyrians and prohibited public celebrations of the Assyrian New Year; and

WHEREAS, It is imperative that members of the Assyrian community across the globe feel seen, valued, and encouraged to celebrate and preserve their cultural heritage; therefore, be it

RESOLVED, BY THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES OF THE ONE HUNDRED SECOND GENERAL ASSEMBLY OF THE STATE OF ILLINOIS, that we recognize the cultural importance and history surrounding the observance of the Assyrian New Year for Assyrian Americans; and be it further

RESOLVED, That we join the Assyrian-American community across Illinois in celebrating the Assyrian New Year and wish all who observe this holiday a healthy and prosperous new year; and be it further

RESOLVED, That we express our appreciation for the vibrancy, tenacity, and contributions of the Assyrian-American community.