Bill Text: NY K02295 | 2023-2024 | General Assembly | Introduced
Bill Title: Commemorating the 115th anniversary of Mount Hebron Cemetery, honoring its historical significance and service to the community
Spectrum: Slight Partisan Bill (Democrat 3-1)
Status: (Passed) 2024-05-28 - adopted [K02295 Detail]
Download: New_York-2023-K02295-Introduced.html
Assembly Resolution No. 2295 BY: M. of A. Berger COMMEMORATING the 115th anniversary of Mount Hebron Cemetery, honoring its historical significance and service to the community WHEREAS, It is the custom of this Legislative Body to recognize and pay tribute to those esteemed institutions that have long served their communities and contributed to the rich tapestry of New York State's history and heritage; and WHEREAS, Mount Hebron Cemetery, located in the vibrant community of Flushing, Queens, stands as a venerable institution, marking its 115th anniversary this year; and WHEREAS, Founded in 1909, Mount Hebron Cemetery has provided a final resting place for generations of New Yorkers, offering a tranquil and respectful environment that honors the memory of those who have passed; and WHEREAS, The cemetery is not only a place of repose but also a cultural and historical landmark, reflecting the diverse heritage and traditions of the people it serves, including a substantial portion of the Jewish community; and WHEREAS, Over the past century and more, Mount Hebron Cemetery has been meticulously maintained, preserving the dignity of the interred and providing comfort to the families and loved ones who visit; and WHEREAS, The cemetery is home to numerous notable individuals who have made significant contributions to the arts, sciences, business, and public service, thus adding to the rich historical narrative of New York State; and WHEREAS, Raphael Lemkin, a distinguished lawyer and the originator of the term "genocide," is interred at Mount Hebron Cemetery; Lemkin's pioneering work in international law has left an indelible mark on the global human rights movement; in his 1944 book, "Axis Rule in Occupied Europe," Lemkin wrote, "Generally speaking, genocide does not necessarily mean the immediate destruction of a nation, except when accomplished by mass killings of all members of a nation. It is intended rather to signify a coordinated plan of different actions aiming at the destruction of essential foundations of the life of national groups, with the aim of annihilating the groups themselves. Genocide is directed against the national group as an entity, and the actions involved are directed against individuals, not in their individual capacity, but as members of the national group"; and WHEREAS, Julius Schwartz, an influential editor and publisher in the comic book industry, also rests at Mount Hebron Cemetery; Schwartz played a key role in the development of some of the most beloved characters and stories in comic book history, including the revival of superheroes such as The Flash, Green Lantern, and the Justice League of America, and his work significantly shaped the modern era of comic books; and WHEREAS, Nathan Perlman, who served as a U.S. Congressman and was a prominent advocate for Jewish causes and social justice, is another notable figure buried at Mount Hebron Cemetery; his contributions to public service and the Jewish community are deeply respected and remembered; during World War II, Nathan Perlman was a vocal opponent of the Nazi regime and used his platform to advocate for the United States' intervention in Europe to stop the atrocities being committed; he was involved in various efforts to support Jewish refugees and worked tirelessly to raise awareness about the plight of European Jews under Nazi occupation; and WHEREAS, Fred Lebow, the founder of the New York City Marathon, is also buried at Mount Hebron Cemetery; Lebow's vision and dedication transformed the marathon into one of the world's premier sporting events, fostering a spirit of endurance and community; and WHEREAS, Mount Hebron Cemetery continues to play a crucial role in the community by offering educational programs, historical tours, and participating in events that promote cultural awareness and remembrance; and WHEREAS, The dedication and hard work of the management and staff of Mount Hebron Cemetery deserve to be recognized for their unwavering commitment to maintaining the highest standards of care and respect for the departed and their families; and WHEREAS, It is fitting that this Legislative Body recognizes the enduring significance of Mount Hebron Cemetery, commends its 115 years of service, and celebrates its ongoing contributions to the heritage of New York State; now, therefore, be it RESOLVED, That this Legislative Body pause in its deliberations to commemorate the 115th anniversary of Mount Hebron Cemetery, honoring its historical significance and service to the community; and be it further RESOLVED, That a copy of this Resolution, suitably engrossed, be transmitted to Mount Hebron Cemetery.