New York State Executive Chamber | Governor Eliot Spitzer

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Proclamation

Whereas, New York is proud to commemorate and recognize the many contributions made by Korean Americans which have furthered the development of this State and Nation, as for more than a century the Korean community has realized significant accomplishments in the areas of education, industry, science, the arts and community service, and in doing so, has derived the many rewards of life in this great democracy; and

Whereas, the relationship between the United States and Korea began with the Treaty of Friendship and Commerce in 1882 and as a result of this agreement many Americans - especially missionaries - had a role in the development of modern Korea; and

Whereas, it was on January 13, 1903 that the first Korean immigrants to the United States arrived in Honolulu, Hawaii, aboard the SS Gaelic, and began new lives in this country; and

Whereas, this year, New Yorkers join with Korean Americans throughout this State to celebrate Korean American Day - a meaningful event that highlights their past and present contributions to society, whereby, as part of the American cultural tapestry, our citizens of Korean ancestry share an appreciation for freedom and peace based on a common respect for human dignity, prosperity and democracy; and

Whereas, Korean Americans demonstrate a strong work ethic and tremendous perseverance that have enabled them to achieve success in many areas of endeavor; members of the community have also served in the Armed Forces of the United States during World Wars I, World War II, and the Korean War in an effort to stem the spread of communism from Northern Korea; and

Whereas, the Empire State welcomes the opportunity to host events which promote a greater understanding of various cultures of the world, and the celebration of Korean American Day provides a wonderful means by which all New Yorkers can experience the vibrancy of Korean heritage, while fostering pride in culture among future generations of Korean Americans;

Now, Therefore, I, Eliot Spitzer, Governor of the State of New York, do hereby proclaim August 15, 2007 as Korean American Day in the Empire State and extend best wishes to New York's Korean American community.

G i v e n under my hand and the Privy Seal of the State at the Capitol in the City of Albany this eighth day of August n the year two thousand seven.

Eliot Spitzer, Governor

Richard Baum, Secretary to the Governor