SR 8699

SENATE RESOLUTION
  8699
By Senators Saldaña and Valdez
1     WHEREAS, Nowruz, meaning "new day," is an ancient celebration
2 with roots tracing back more than three millennia to the cultures of
3 the Iranian plateau and surrounding regions, marking the arrival of
4 the spring equinox and the renewal of the natural world, which in
5 2026 occurs on March 20th at 7:46 a.m.; and
6     WHEREAS, The observance of Nowruz is shared by nearly 300 million
7 people worldwide, transcending religious and national boundaries, and
8 is celebrated by communities, including those in Iran, Iraq,
9 Afghanistan, Tajikistan, Uzbekistan, Azerbaijan, and Turkmenistan,
10 and among Kurdish, Hazara, and other cultural groups across the
11 Middle East and Central Asia; and
12     WHEREAS, Nowruz symbolizes renewal, hope, and the transition from
13 winter into spring, reflecting themes of rebirth, growth, and the
14 enduring resilience of humanity and nature alike; and
15     WHEREAS, For many observers, particularly members of the Iranian
16 diaspora and broader Middle Eastern and Central Asian communities in
17 Washington state, Nowruz represents not only a cultural tradition but
18 also an affirmation of dignity, freedom, justice, and the aspiration
19 for peace and self-determination; and
20     WHEREAS, Washington state is home to vibrant Middle Eastern and
21 Central Asian communities whose members have enriched the state
22 through contributions to education, public service, entrepreneurship,
23 health care, the arts, advocacy, and civic leadership; and
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1     WHEREAS, Many individuals from these regions have come to
2 the United States seeking safety, opportunity, and the ability
3 to live freely and openly, strengthening the cultural fabric and
4 shared democratic values of our state; and
5     WHEREAS, In times marked by global uncertainty, grief, and
6 hardship, including the loss and suffering experienced by
7 families and communities abroad, the spirit of Nowruz calls upon
8 us to embrace compassion, unity, and mutual understanding; and
9     WHEREAS, The celebration of Nowruz offers an opportunity for
10 all Washingtonians to reflect on shared values of generosity,
11 renewal, community care, and optimism for the year ahead;
12     NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, That the Washington state
13 Senate recognize and honor the celebration of Nowruz and its
14 deep historical and cultural significance, extend its solidarity
15 and support to all communities observing Nowruz in times of both
16 celebration and challenge, and wish all those celebrating a
17 joyful, peaceful, and prosperous new year.
18 I, Sarah Bannister, Secretary of the Senate,
19 do hereby certify that this is a true and
20 correct copy of Senate Resolution 8699,
21 adopted by the Senate
22 March 3, 2026
23 SARAH BANNISTER
24 Secretary of the Senate
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