Honoring the Washington Street Historical Society upon the occasion of the unveiling of its monument, Al Qalam: Poets in the Park, at Elizabeth H. Berger Plaza on April 30, 2026

Assembly Resolution No. 1242

BY: M. of A. Fall

        HONORING  the Washington Street Historical Society
        upon the occasion of the unveiling of its  monument,
        "Al  Qalam:  Poets  in  the  Park,"  at Elizabeth H.
        Berger Plaza on April 30, 2026

  WHEREAS, It is the custom of this Legislative Body to recognize  and
commend  those  organizations whose dedication to preserving history and
promoting cultural understanding enriches the communities of this State;
and

  WHEREAS, Attendant to such concern, and  in  full  accord  with  its
long-standing traditions, this Legislative Body is justly proud to honor
the Washington Street Historical Society for its steadfast commitment to
preserving the history of Lower Manhattan's "Little Syria," the earliest
Arabic-speaking community in the United States; and

  WHEREAS,  From the late 19th century through the early 20th century,
this neighborhood served as a vibrant center of cultural, literary,  and
commercial  life, contributing significantly to the social fabric of New
York City;  through  years  of  advocacy,  education,  and  preservation
efforts,  the  Washington Street Historical Society has ensured that the
legacy of this community endures; and

  WHEREAS, The monument, "Al Qalam: Poets in the Park," is designed by
French-Moroccan  artist  Sara  Ouhaddou  and  features  mosaic   seating
elements  and a central sculptural form representing the Arabic word "al
qalam," meaning "The Pen"; and

  WHEREAS, This installation highlights the literary contributions  of
notable  Arab-American  poets, including Kahlil Gibran and Ameen Rihani,
reflecting the rich cultural and intellectual  heritage  of  the  Little
Syria community; and

  WHEREAS,   The   unveiling  of  this  monument  marks  a  meaningful
milestone, honoring the contributions, stories,  and  enduring  cultural
legacy  of  the  Little Syria community, and stands as a lasting tribute
and educational resource for future generations; now, therefore, be it

  RESOLVED, That this Legislative Body pause in its  deliberations  to
honor  the Washington Street Historical Society upon the occasion of the
unveiling of "Al Qalam: Poets in the Park" at Elizabeth H. Berger  Plaza
on April 30, 2026; and be it further

  RESOLVED,  That  a  copy  of this Resolution, suitably engrossed, be
transmitted to the Washington Street Historical Society and  the  Office
of  the  Mayor  of  New  York  City  in  recognition  of its outstanding
contributions to preserving the history and  cultural  heritage  of  New
York.