Michigan resolution for Nowruz

February 21, 2002

No. 16, STATE OF MICHIGAN JOURNAL OF THE

House of Representatives, 91st Legislature

REGULAR SESSION OF 2002

[February 21, 2002] JOURNAL OF THE HOUSE 329

Rep. Shulman offered the following resolution:

House Resolution No. 336.

A resolution proclaiming Wednesday, March 20, 2002, as Iranian-American Day in Michigan.

Whereas, Iranian/Persian history dates back to 3000 B.C. The people of Iran have celebrated Nowruz, the New Year, on the first day of spring for 3,000 years; and Whereas, The Iranian people have a long tradition of tolerance and respect for human rights, including the establishment, in 550 B.C., of the earliest democratic kingdom, under Cyrus the Great. Cyrus the Great freed the Jewish people from Babylonian oppression and established the first bill of rights. This abolished slavery, guaranteed freedom of speech, and outlawed discrimination against all races and religions;

and Whereas, Throughout their long history, Iranians have made great contributions to the arts, sciences, and philosophy. These include the writings of Omar Khayyam and Molana, contributions to medicine of Avicenna, advances in chemistry of Razi, and the invention of algebra;

and, Whereas, The Iranian-American community contributes greatly to Michigan's economy, cultural richness, and diversity. They are a highly educated population and preserve their rich culture and heritage, while contributing to the community as doctors, lawyers, engineers, business people, and university professors;

now, therefore, be it Resolved by the House of Representatives, That the members of this legislative body proclaim Wednesday, March 20, 2002, as Iranian-American Day in Michigan. Pending the reference of the resolution to a committee, Rep. Patterson moved that Rule 77 be suspended and the resolution be considered at this time.

The question being on the adoption of the resolution, the resolution was adopted.