[Congressional Record Volume 171, Number 52 (Friday, March 21, 2025)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E231]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




 INTRODUCING A RESOLUTION TO RECOGNIZE MARCH AS ZOROASTRIAN LEGACY AND 
                             HERITAGE MONTH

                                 ______
                                 

                          HON. J. LUIS CORREA

                             of california

                    in the house of representatives

                         Friday, March 21, 2025

  Mr. CORREA. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in support of my Resolution to 
recognize the month of March as ``Zoroastrian Legacy and Heritage 
Month.''
  Originating in ancient Persia, Zoroastrianism is one of the world's 
oldest monotheistic religions. Its legacy includes significant 
contributions to history and civilization, including influencing 
democracy, universal human rights, and international trade and 
commerce.
  In fact, Cyrus the Great, a follower of Zoroastrianism, recorded the 
first declaration of human rights, emphasizing freedom of religion, 
equality, cultural and civil rights, and the abolishment of slavery. 
These values were recorded on the famous Cyrus Cylinder in 539 B.C.E, 
and remain an essential part of our values today--including being 
enshrined in our own Constitution.
  Zoroastrianism celebrates the spring festival of Nowruz during the 
Spring Equinox in March, signifying the triumph of light, warmth, and 
life over darkness. March is devoted to Mother Earth, symbolizing 
peace, love, and harmony.
  Today, Zoroastrians continue to contribute to our world and to the 
United States. The Zoroastrian Association of California has made 
Orange County it's home and serves as a house of worship and a place 
for social gatherings.
  I call on my colleagues to support my Resolution to recognize the 
month of March as ``Zoroastrian Legacy and Heritage Month.''

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