STATE OF NEW YORK 
EXECUTIVE CHAMBER 
Proclamation 

Whereas, the Empire State’s greatest strength is its diversity of people and we value the contributions made by individuals of all backgrounds who reflect a broad representation of nations, ethnicities, religions and races, and also recognize that many populations have a tremendous impact upon our State and Nation, and that our future depends upon a continuous flow of people from all parts of the globe, including the African continent; and

Whereas, throughout its history, our State has welcomed people of all nationalities, and we appreciate the various cultures that add to our diversity, including a thriving community of people from the Republic of Côte d’Ivoire – the Ivory Coast – who uphold the traditions of their African homeland and share the American ideals of freedom and democracy; and

Whereas, New Yorkers recognize that those who hail from the Republic of Côte d’Ivoire have had a positive impact on life in this State and Nation, and this community continues to be a meaningful presence as its people contribute significantly to many areas of life, such as the arts, education, industry, science and community service; and

Whereas, the Empire State is proud to honor the history of various communities that not only strengthen our State and Nation – but influence all humankind – and adding to the greatness of this country are individuals and entire communities of people from the Ivory Coast who have found success as members of various professions and who participate creatively and industriously in every facet of life, working to better our cities and neighborhoods by building schools, libraries, hospitals, houses of worship and many other institutions; and

Whereas, the celebration of Côte d’Ivoire Diversity Week fosters appreciation for the culture of this West African country, and instills a sense of pride in the legacy handed down to younger generations that will add to the achievements of their ancestors, whereby they will continue to benefit people in this State and Nation, and in their homeland; and

Whereas, New York State is home to the largest immigrant population in the United States and in observance of Côte d’Ivoire Diversity Week, we join to commemorate this meaningful occasion and rejoice in our multicultural population and the richness of our diverse and pluralistic society, as the strength of our entire Nation is its inclusiveness inspired by the enduring values of freedom and democracy upon which it is founded and prevails;

Now, Therefore, I, David A. Paterson, Governor of the State of New York, do hereby proclaim August 7-13, 2009 as

CÔTE D’IVOIRE DIVERSITY WEEK

and extend best wishes to our community of people from the Republic of Côte d’Ivoire, as they hold appropriate ceremonies to commemorate this observance.

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

David A. Paterson
Governor

Lawrence Schwartz
Secretary to the Governor