[Congressional Record Volume 155, Number 49 (Monday, March 23, 2009)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E741]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




               IN RECOGNITION OF NOWRUZ, IRANIAN NEW YEAR

                                 ______
                                 

                        HON. CAROLYN B. MALONEY

                              of new york

                    in the house of representatives

                         Monday, March 23, 2009

  Mrs. MALONEY. Madam Speaker, I rise today in support of Nowruz, which 
marks the traditional Iranian New Year and dates back more than 3,000 
years. Nowruz, literally meaning ``new day,'' celebrates the arrival of 
spring and occurs on the vernal equinox which this year happened on 
Friday, March 20th.
  Through the ages Nowruz has provided the occasion for renewal and 
rejuvenation, displaying new resolve in settling old issues, and making 
new beginnings. Nowruz celebrates the core of our common humanity and 
our relation to Mother Nature. Although colored with vestiges of Iran's 
Mazdian and Zoroastrian past, Nowruz celebration is neither religious 
nor national in nature, nor is it an ethnic celebration. Muslim, 
Jewish, Zoroastrian, Baha'i, and Christian Iranians as well as many 
other peoples celebrate Nowruz with the same enthusiasm and sense of 
belonging.
  As an original cosponsor of H. Res. 267, which recognizes the 
cultural and historical significance of Nowruz, I am pleased that we 
are using this occasion to reflect on the many contributions Iranian 
Americans have made to our society. I am proud of the ethnically 
diverse district that I represent and greatly appreciate all that 
Iranian Americans have added to the rich and varied culture of New York 
City.
  Recognizing the cultural and historical significance of Nowruz and in 
its observance, I want to wish Iranian Americans and all those who 
observe this holiday a happy and prosperous new year.

                          ____________________