STATE OF NEW YORK 
EXECUTIVE CHAMBER 
Proclamation

Whereas, the people of the Empire State have a longstanding tradition of acknowledging significant milestones and events of historical importance, therefore, we are proud to join with the Jewish people and communities of this State and Nation as they commemorate the 60th anniversary of the State of Israel; and

Whereas, the Empire State’s greatest strength is its diversity of people, including a vibrant Jewish population that shares a wonderful cultural heritage with all New Yorkers and, as home to the largest Jewish population in America, New York proudly supports the State of Israel and a strong association built upon our longstanding friendship and mutual respect; and

Whereas, it was on November 29, 1947 that the United Nations General Assembly voted to adopt a special committee’s recommendation to partition Palestine, resulting in the creation of the State of Israel in 1948, and in the decades since, the nascent yet valiant State of Israel has prospered as the restored Jewish homeland; and

Whereas, as a successfully independent democracy – the only one in the Middle East today – the State of Israel has forged a new identity as a free and sovereign nation of people, and Israel has proven to be a resourceful and courageous nation throughout the decades, seeking to establish as its basic, fundamental principles those same values upon which the United States was founded – freedom, opportunity and justice; and

Whereas, the worldwide community of people who were born in the Israeli homeland, or with ancestral ties to Israel, continually demonstrate its greatness, and their contributions are noteworthy and include achievements that encompass a wide range of endeavors in areas including education, medicine, science, technology and industry; and

Whereas, the Empire State welcomes the opportunity to be the site of events which promote a greater understanding of various cultures of the world and this celebration of the 60th Anniversary of Israel provides an excellent means by which all New Yorkers can appreciate the history and legacy of the Jewish people, while preserving this ancient culture for future generations of Jewish Americans and, on this occasion, the citizens of New York State join to recognize and congratulate the entire Jewish American community;

Now, Therefore, I, David A. Paterson, Governor of the State of New York, do hereby proclaim May 7, 2008 as ISRAEL AT 60 DAY 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 second day of May in the year two thousand eight.