Nowruz

WHEREAS, Nowruz, meaning "new day," is an ancient celebration 1
with roots tracing back more than three millennia to the cultures of 2
the Iranian plateau and surrounding regions, marking the arrival of 3
the spring equinox and the renewal of the natural world, which in 4
2026 occurs on March 20th at 7:46 a.m.; and 5
WHEREAS, The observance of Nowruz is shared by nearly 300 million 6
people worldwide, transcending religious and national boundaries, and 7
is celebrated by communities, including those in Iran, Iraq, 8
Afghanistan, Tajikistan, Uzbekistan, Azerbaijan, and Turkmenistan, 9
and among Kurdish, Hazara, and other cultural groups across the 10
Middle East and Central Asia; and 11
WHEREAS, Nowruz symbolizes renewal, hope, and the transition from 12
winter into spring, reflecting themes of rebirth, growth, and the 13
enduring resilience of humanity and nature alike; and14
WHEREAS, For many observers, particularly members of the Iranian 15
diaspora and broader Middle Eastern and Central Asian communities in 16
Washington state, Nowruz represents not only a cultural tradition but 17
also an affirmation of dignity, freedom, justice, and the aspiration 18
for peace and self-determination; and 19
WHEREAS, Washington state is home to vibrant Middle Eastern and 20
Central Asian communities whose members have enriched the state 21
through contributions to education, public service, entrepreneurship, 22
health care, the arts, advocacy, and civic leadership; and23
SENATE RESOLUTION
8699
By Senators Saldaña and Valdez
p. 1 8699
WHEREAS, Many individuals from these regions have come to 1
the United States seeking safety, opportunity, and the ability 2
to live freely and openly, strengthening the cultural fabric and 3
shared democratic values of our state; and 4
WHEREAS, In times marked by global uncertainty, grief, and 5
hardship, including the loss and suffering experienced by 6
families and communities abroad, the spirit of Nowruz calls upon 7
us to embrace compassion, unity, and mutual understanding; and8
WHEREAS, The celebration of Nowruz offers an opportunity for 9
all Washingtonians to reflect on shared values of generosity, 10
renewal, community care, and optimism for the year ahead;11
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, That the Washington state 12
Senate recognize and honor the celebration of Nowruz and its 13
deep historical and cultural significance, extend its solidarity 14
and support to all communities observing Nowruz in times of both 15
celebration and challenge, and wish all those celebrating a 16
joyful, peaceful, and prosperous new year. 17
I, Sarah Bannister, Secretary of the Senate, 18
do hereby certify that this is a true and 19
correct copy of Senate Resolution 8699, 20
adopted by the Senate 21
March 3, 2026 22
SARAH BANNISTER 23
Secretary of the Senate 24
p. 2 8699