HOUSE RESOLUTION NO. 2026-4682
HR 4682
By Representatives Thai, Zahn, Ryu, Duerr, Gregerson, Santos, Thomas, Lekanoff, Ramel, Cortes, Nance, Berry, Parshley, Kloba, Salahuddin, Eslick, and Barnard
WHEREAS, On this 17th day of February in 2026, the people of the great state of Washington unite to celebrate Lunar New Year, joining to distinguish Asian American joy, cultures, and beautiful diversity; and
WHEREAS, The Lunar New Year has been celebrated for thousands of years, first recorded in the 200s BC and begins on the first new moon of the lunisolar calendar; and
WHEREAS, This year is designated as the Year of the Fire Horse and is characterized by breakthroughs, bold changes, and freedom, bringing about a fast pace to life; and
WHEREAS, Washington acknowledges both the rich heritage and historical trauma of our Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander ancestors; and
WHEREAS, We deeply appreciate the many contributions of the Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander communities that have made Washington a vibrant place for us all to call home, through building and supporting their communities despite the persistent discriminations and violence they may have faced in the past and present; and
WHEREAS, The history of Asian Americans in the United States is marked by exclusion and prejudice, from the Chinese Exclusion Act to the internment of Japanese Americans during World War II, and the scars of these events still resonate today; and
WHEREAS, Despite these challenges, the Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander communities have enriched our nation with countless contributions in science, technology, arts, and culture, weaving themselves into the very fabric of Washington; and
WHEREAS, Recognizing and celebrating Lunar New Year affirms the value of Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander communities and fosters a deeper understanding of our diverse traditions, sending a signal to future generations that their heritage is respected and celebrated; and
WHEREAS, In 2024, legislation was passed in Washington state to establish Lunar New Year as a state-recognized holiday, sending a clear message that inclusion matters; and