HON. CAROLYN B. MALONEY
in the house of representatives
STATEMENT IN SUPPORT OF H. RES. 267, RECOGNIZING THE CULTURAL AND HISTORICAL SIGNIFICANCE OF NOWRUZ 
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.