STATE OF NEW YORK 
EXECUTIVE CHAMBER 
Proclamation

Whereas, throughout its history, the Empire State has welcomed people from around the world and of every national and ethnic background, and New Yorkers appreciate the contributions made by our thriving Latino population, including many individuals of Ecuadorian ancestry who share the honored values and traditions of their homeland as they uphold the principles of freedom and democracy that are fundamental to life in America; and

Whereas, citizens of Ecuadorian heritage add to the richness and diversity of this State and we join with the Ecuadorian-American community in the New York metropolitan region to celebrate the annual “Ecuafest” and parade commemorating the 187th anniversary of independence for the people living in what would eventually become the Republic of Ecuador; this freedom was obtained as a result of a hard fought battle that led to the May 24, 1822 victory of the Ecuadorian Patriot forces over the Royalist forces loyal to Spain in the Battle of Pichincha – one of the most famous of the South American Wars of Independence that took place on the slopes of the Pichincha volcano, next to the city of Quito in modern Ecuador; and

Whereas, during this weeklong celebration of Ecuadorian independence and heritage, citizens of Ecuadorian ancestry highlight their accomplishments, culture and pride and, in so doing, they increase appreciation for the contributions they have made to our entire Nation, further reinforcing the Empire State’s reputation as the cultural capital of the world; and

Whereas, on May 24, 2009, “Ecuafest” and the Ecuadorian Parade will commemorate the rich cultural heritage and traditions of the Ecuadorian-American community and instill a sense of pride in younger generations who will add to their parents’ legacy of accomplishments on behalf of this State and Nation; as a growing population, our Ecuadorian communities are a visible and viable presence with a future that holds great promises for success and even greater achievements as business, government and civic leaders who speak to a whole new generation of citizens; and

Whereas, in sponsoring this celebration and parade, the members of “Ecuafest” are to be applauded for their hard work in organizing this grand event which celebrates the pride of the entire Ecuadorian community and invites all New Yorkers to participate in the festivities, and we admire such dedication to the Ecuadorian community in our State; and

Whereas, citizens across our State recognize and appreciate the noble struggle for freedom as well as the culture and goodwill shared by the Ecuadorian community as it continues this annual tradition, and it is fitting that all New Yorkers join our Ecuadorian friends and neighbors in this weeklong celebration of pride and independence;

Now, Therefore, I, David A. Paterson, Governor of the State of New York, do hereby proclaim May 17-24, 2009 as

ECUADORIAN WEEK

in the Empire State.

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

David A. Paterson
Governor