2024 -- S 3081

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LC006140

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     STATE OF RHODE ISLAND

IN GENERAL ASSEMBLY

JANUARY SESSION, A.D. 2024

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S E N A T E   R E S O L U T I O N

CELEBRATING MAY 21, 2024, AS "KOREA DAY" IN THE STATE OF RHODE ISLAND

     

     Introduced By: Senators Ujifusa, Gu, Raptakis, F. Lombardi, Felag, Ciccone, E Morgan,
Britto, Mack, and Cano

     Date Introduced: May 21, 2024

     Referred To: Recommended for Immediate Consideration

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     WHEREAS, The cornerstone of Rhode Island's founding principles is acceptance and

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equality for the numerous beliefs and various cultures that make our State and this Country so

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great, and thus proud to be the home of numerous ethnic communities; and

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     WHEREAS, Rhode Island's Korean American community imparts a rich history and

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vitality through their presence. Our State's identity and strength is reflected in the traditions and

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observances celebrated by its various cultures and populations; and

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     WHEREAS, Korea emerged from the ashes of the Korean War in 1950 to become a

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nation that has achieved and succeeded as a leader in democracy and economic development in

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Asia; and

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     WHEREAS, In addition, South Korea has risen as a cultural and inspiring powerhouse

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globally with the widespread diffusion of Hallyu and the emergence of KPOP music, tourism and

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worldwide love of Korean cuisine as part of the Korean Wave; and

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     WHEREAS, The sacrifices and dedication of Korean War veterans from the State of

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Rhode Island contributed to the establishment of the enduring Republic of Korea-United States

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(ROK-US) alliance in 1953, rooted in common values of freedom and democracy and evolving

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into a Global Comprehensive Strategic Alliance; and

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     WHEREAS, Under the tenure of Kim Jae-hui, the Consul General of the Republic of

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Korea in Boston, there has been a greater mutual understanding, outreach, and cooperation

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between Korea and Rhode Island that has matured and been strengthened in the Ocean State; and

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     WHEREAS, Economically, South Korea is an important trade partner for Rhode Island

 

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with exports of $41 million (USO), making it one of the top fifteen exporters for the State; and

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     WHEREAS, In addition, the Korean American Association of Rhode Island (KAARI)

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was founded in 1975, with the desire to celebrate and share Korean culture with Rhode Island.

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The organization is dedicated to promoting friendship, welfare, and education among its

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members, and contributes to beneficial cultural exchanges and international goodwill between

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Koreans and Americans in our State; and

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     WHEREAS, The Korean community in Rhode Island is an essential element in our

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State's journey towards understanding, mutual respect, and common purpose for all people, and is

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a vital component in our State's economic health; now, therefore be it

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     RESOLVED, That this Senate of the State of Rhode Island hereby celebrates May 21,

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2024, as "Korea Day" in the State of Rhode Island. We furthermore extend our deepest respect

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and appreciation to the Rhode Island Korean community for all that it has contributed to the rich

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diversity of our State and New England as a whole; and be it further

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     RESOLVED, That the Secretary of State be and hereby is authorized and directed to

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transmit duly certified copies of this resolution to the Korean American Association of Rhode

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Island and to Kim Jae-hui, Consul General of the Republic of Korea in Boston.

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LC006140

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