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LUNAR NEW YEAR PROCLAMATION
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WHEREAS, Lunar New Year, a time of feasting and renewal of family and community ties, symbolizes reunion and rebirth, and marking the end of winter and the start of spring; and
WHEREAS, various Asian Pacific Islander cultures, including, Chinese, Indonesian, Korean, Malaysian, Singaporean, Vietnamese, and many others, traditionally celebrate the Lunar New Year in a variety of ways worldwide; and
WHEREAS, in 2023, Lunar New Year begins January 22 and celebrations last until February 5 when the first full moon of the year marks the end of the New Year season, and the Lantern Festival is held; and
WHEREAS, in 2023, the Year of the Rabbit will be observed in most countries and cultures in accordance with the lunar zodiac, and Vietnam will welcome the Year of the Cat; and
WHEREAS, the celebration of Lunar New Year events in San Leandro and throughout the surrounding region illustrates our community’s rich cultural history and commitment to diversity; and
WHEREAS, we proudly reflect on the contributions of Californians of Asian descent, who continue to help build a vibrant California - from America’s first transcontinental railroad, to the farms and small businesses that are foundational to our state’s economy; and
WHEREAS, we recognize that discriminatory laws, xenophobic policies, and mistreatment towards Californians of Asian descent do not have a place in our city, state, or country, and we must continue to stand against the anti-Asian rhetoric and hate that increased during the COVID-19 pandemic and reject past and present prejudice and embrace all people.
NOW, THEREFORE, I, Mayor Juan González III, Mayor of San Leandro, HEREBY PROCLAIM January 22, 2023, as “LUNAR NEW YEAR” in San Leandro and wish everyone celebrating a joyous new year, good fortune, health, and happiness, and encourage everyone in San Leandro to join in the spirit of community and reaffirm our city’s commitment to family, diversity, mutual respect, and creating an inclusive environment of belonging for all.
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JUAN GONZALEZ III
MAYOR OF THE CITY OF SAN LEANDRO
FEBRUARY 6, 2023