WHEREAS, The Northwest Folklife Festival celebrates its 32nd annual tribute to the folk, traditional, and ethnic cultural traditions of Pacific Northwest communities; and
     WHEREAS, The four-day Festival is recognized nationally as a major cultural event that attracts more than 200,000 visitors from the region and around the world to the Seattle area, significantly contributing to its economic vitality; and
     WHEREAS, The Festival is a community-owned celebration, made possible by the extraordinary commitment and contribution of 6,000 individuals who donate their time, talent, and skill to make their Festival happen; and
     WHEREAS, The Festival has retained the integrity of its founding principles of accessibility through its commitment to free admission and to cultural enrichment through hands-on and participatory activities; and
     WHEREAS, The Festival embodies the generosity and spirit of the people of Washington and contributes to the unique character of the state; and
     WHEREAS, The Festival is focusing on the Maritime Traditions of the Pacific Northwest, recognizing and honoring the rich ethnic diversity of Washington and furthering understanding among different cultures and backgrounds; and
     WHEREAS, The Festival substantively contributes to the viability of precious cultural resources by presenting, documenting, and preserving them for future generations;
     NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, That the Washington State Senate honor and celebrate 32 years of the Northwest Folklife Festival and its unwavering dedication to presenting music and art in community life.