Senator Cooney honors 75th anniversary of Indian Constitution in New York Senate

On May 14, 2025, the New York State Senate convened to discuss significant resolutions that celebrate cultural heritage and recognize historical contributions. The session highlighted two key resolutions: one commemorating the 75th anniversary of the Indian Constitution and another honoring the descendants of Chinese American transcontinental railroad workers.

Senator Cooney introduced a resolution to honor the 75th anniversary of the Indian Constitution, emphasizing the importance of this milestone not only for India but for the global Indian community. He acknowledged the contributions of notable figures like Mahatma Gandhi in India's struggle for independence and reflected on the shared history between India and the United States. Cooney, who was adopted from an orphanage in Calcutta, expressed a personal connection to this celebration, reinforcing the ties between the Indian community and New York. The resolution received support from several senators, including Senator Stavisky, who drew parallels between the independence movements of India and the U.S., and Senator Liu, who praised Cooney's leadership as the first South Asian elected north of New York City.

The second resolution, introduced by Senator Liu, recognized the 156th anniversary of the completion of the Transcontinental Railroad, highlighting the crucial role of Chinese immigrant laborers in this monumental achievement. Liu pointed out the historical oversight of these contributions, noting that the original completion ceremony lacked representation of Chinese workers. He welcomed descendants of these laborers to the Senate, emphasizing the need for accurate historical representation and education regarding their sacrifices and contributions to American society. Senator Chan shared a personal narrative about his ancestry linked to the railroad workers, shedding light on the struggles faced by Chinese immigrants, including the Rock Springs Massacre, which underscored the violence and discrimination they endured.

Additionally, the Senate recognized Lisa Cortez for her impactful work in the entertainment industry, celebrating her as a trailblazer who has enriched cultural narratives through her storytelling.

The discussions during this session not only honored significant historical events but also reinforced the importance of recognizing diverse contributions to American history. As the Senate continues to address these topics, the resolutions serve as a reminder of the ongoing need for inclusivity and acknowledgment of all communities in shaping the nation’s narrative.