SENATE RESOLUTION

8676

BySenators Fortunato and Padden

WHEREAS, Washington State is home to a vibrant Liberian community who contribute to the cultural, economic, and civic enrichment of the state; and

WHEREAS, The United States Congress recently recognized the invaluable relationship between these two great nations to reaffirm our ties and support for democratic principles in Liberia; and

WHEREAS, The country of Liberia has maintained strong historical, political, and economic ties to the United States for the past two hundred years with nearly 80,000 people of Liberian descent calling America home; and

WHEREAS, The Liberian people, although having faced significant adversity throughout their history, have sought to maintain the highest ideals of a free and democratic society; and

WHEREAS, Liberia celebrated its first peaceful transition of power since 1944 in the 2017 election; and

WHEREAS, The Liberian people have worked tirelessly to build and safeguard their liberty, rich history, and institutions; and

WHEREAS, The Liberian Association of Washington State was founded to help enhance the socioeconomic and educational well-being of its members, promote coexistence and cultural heritage among Liberians, and address the needs of Liberians facing challenges at home; and

WHEREAS, The United States and its citizens have supported investments in democratic institutions, education, health care, and the general welfare of the Liberian people;

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, That the Washington State Senate recognize the importance of continuing a strong relationship with the Liberian people, and between our governments; and

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, That the Washington State Senate commend the individuals and groups working on behalf of the Liberian community to improve their lives, and the lives of their countrymen, through a strong civil society and the rule of law.