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Senate adopts SCR 22 recognizing Syrian (Assyrian) New Year; author highlights community contributions
Summary
The Senate adopted SCR 22, formally recognizing the Syrian/Assyrian New Year (Khabbi Nisan) and calling attention to the state's Syrian American communities and cultural heritage; the resolution was accompanied by floor introductions of community guests.
Senator Alvarado presented Senate Concurrent Resolution 22 on April 1, 2025, formally recognizing April 1 as the Syrian New Year (also referred to on the floor as Khabbi Nisan or Akitu). On the floor the sponsor described the holiday's history and traditions, saying it "symbolized renewal" and recounted traditional ceremonies and community observances that continue among Assyrians worldwide and in California.
Nut graf: The Senate adopted SCR 22 as a cultural recognition. The sponsor underlined the long-standing presence of Assyrian communities in the state, noting churches, civic organizations, businesses and cultural centers that maintain and promote Assyrian heritage. Several named guests from the Syrian/Assyrian community were given privileges of the floor and introduced to members.
On the floor: Senator Alvarado asked members to welcome guests including "Sam David, president of the Syrian American Civic Club; Carmen Murad, journalist and media personality from the Syrian Global Network; Janet Atanas from the Syrian Wellness Collaborative; John and Diana Ishmael; and representatives of the Syrian American Association of Southern California, Raymond Tochsch and Peter Warda." The sponsor said recognizing the holiday "supports cultural preservation, educational dialogue, and the promotion of diversity," and requested an aye vote.
Formal action: The Senate recorded votes on the resolution and adopted it. The vote was taken by roll call and recorded as an affirmative adoption. The resolution is symbolic recognition and does not appropriate funds or change statute.
Ending: With SCR 22 adopted, the Senate memorialized the Syrian/Assyrian New Year and publicly acknowledged the contributions of Syrian American communities in California; the resolution encourages cultural visibility and preservation but does not create a program or funding stream on its own.
