[Congressional Record Volume 156, Number 40 (Thursday, March 18, 2010)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E407]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




   STATEMENT IN SUPPORT OF H. RES. 267, RECOGNIZING THE CULTURAL AND 
                   HISTORICAL SIGNIFICANCE OF NOWRUZ

                                 ______
                                 

                        HON. CAROLYN B. MALONEY

                              of new york

                    in the house of representatives

                        Thursday, March 18, 2010

  Mrs. MALONEY. Madam Speaker, I rise today in strong support of H. 
Res. 267, which recognizes the cultural and historical significance of 
Nowruz.
  As an original cosponsor of H. Res. 267, 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.
  Nowruz 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 will 
happen on Saturday, 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.
  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.
  I would like to thank Representative Honda for introducing this 
important resolution, and I urge my colleagues to support it.

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