Assemblyman Phil Ramos (D-Brentwood) announced that he sponsored and helped pass an Assembly resolution recognizing Aug. 6 as Salvadoran-American Day in New York State (K.475).

“The Salvadoran-American community is an invaluable part of the fabric of Suffolk County, which is home to the largest Salvadoran population in New York State,” Ramos said. “Their strength, perseverance and immeasurable contributions have made Long Island stronger and more vibrant and show that the intersection of cultures makes our nation a better place.”

The first Salvadoran-American Day was celebrated on Aug. 6, 2006, making Salvadorans the first immigrants to have a federally declared day to celebrate their achievements. Aug. 6 is an important date in Salvadoran history, as it marks the founding of Villa De San Salvador in 1525, where the indigenous ancestors of El Salvador fought historic battles for liberty. After facing a devastating earthquake, widespread poverty and decades of political turmoil, hundreds of thousands of individuals from El Salvador fled to the United States with the hope of a better life. Salvadorans are now the largest minority on Long Island and make up a considerable part of the community in the Brentwood, Central Islip and Bay Shore areas.^[1] As the Salvadoran-American community grows, it’s important we celebrate their history of resilience and express our gratitude for their many contributions to our economy and culture, Ramos noted.

[1] voicesofny.org/2014/08/salvadorans-largest-minority-long-island