STATE OF NEW YORK 
EXECUTIVE CHAMBER 
Proclamation

Whereas, throughout its history, New York State has welcomed people from around the world of every nationality and ethnicity, and our citizens appreciate the cultural contributions made by individuals of various backgrounds, including those made by our thriving Peruvian communities; and

Whereas, as a state whose greatest strength is its diversity, we join to recognize notable milestones in the history of the ancestral countries of citizens and this year we commemorate the 188th anniversary of Peru’s independence from Spain, as the statewide Peruvian community appropriately celebrates with parades in grand tradition and other events held during this observance; and

Whereas, Peru, the land of the highly developed Inca civilization centered in Cuzco, has a rich history of human culture dating back to circa 11,000 BCE, and its fight for independence from Spain was led by Jose de San Martin and Simon Bolivar, who proclaimed independence on July 28, 1821; and

Whereas, since that date, the Peruvian people have worked hard to establish a strong and productive country, and during this week, all those of Peruvian ancestry worldwide take the opportunity to honor their cherished motherland with the words of the historic proclamation of 1821: “From this moment on, Peru is free and independent, for the general will of the towns and for the justice of its cause that God defends. Long live the homeland! Long live freedom! Long live our independence!” and

Whereas, the Empire State embraces its multicultural population of people who enrich our lives by sharing their heritage and, as Peruvian Americans are an integral part of the cultural tapestry of New York State, it is fitting that citizens of all backgrounds join in this monthlong celebration of the independence of their homeland and the positive contributions they continue to make to our state and nation;

Now, Therefore, I, David A. Paterson, Governor of the State of New York, do hereby proclaim July 2009 as

PERUVIAN HERITAGE MONTH

in the Empire State.

G i v e n under my hand and the Privy Seal of the State at the Capitol in the City of Albany this first day of July in the year two thousand nine.

David A. Paterson
Governor