New Jersey 2022-2023 Regular Session

New Jersey Senate Bill SJR138

Caption

Designates November 22 of each year as Kimchi Day.

Impact

By establishing Kimchi Day, the resolution aims to promote and celebrate the Korean-American community in New Jersey, which comprises approximately 105,000 residents, particularly concentrated in Bergen County. This designation reflects the state's commitment to recognizing its ethnic diversity and supporting cultural traditions. Furthermore, the legislation aligns with the global recognition of kimchi's cultural heritage, as the practice of ‘kimjang’ was added to UNESCO's Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity in 2013.

Summary

SJR138 is a joint resolution introduced in the New Jersey legislature that designates November 22 of each year as Kimchi Day. The bill highlights the cultural significance of kimchi in Korean cuisine, a dish composed of salted and fermented vegetables that has a rich historical background dating back over two thousand years. It is celebrated not only for its flavor but also for its health benefits, being recognized as an excellent source of probiotics, vitamins, and minerals.

Contention

Though the bill is largely symbolic and aims to foster cultural appreciation, discussions surrounding similar resolutions often address the broader themes of multiculturalism and the contributions of immigrant communities to the state’s cultural fabric. While no significant opposition is recorded for SJR138, similar designations in other states have sometimes sparked debates on resource allocation for cultural celebrations versus other state priorities.

Companion Bills

NJ AJR200

Same As Designates November 22 of each year as Kimchi Day.

Previously Filed As

NJ AJR200

Designates November 22 of each year as Kimchi Day.

NJ AJR64

Designates November 22 of each year as Kimchi Day.

NJ HJR147

Kimchi Day; designating as November 22, 2022, and each succeeding year thereafter.

NJ SCR25

Designating November 22, 2023, As "kimchi Day" In The State Of Hawaii.

NJ HCR33

Designating November 22, 2023, As "kimchi Day" In The State Of Hawaii.

NJ HR34

Designating November 22, 2023, As "kimchi Day" In The State Of Hawaii.

NJ HR280

Expressing support for the designation of November 22, 2023, as "Kimchi Day".

NJ HB133

State holidays; November 22 as Kimchi Day; designate

NJ SB2402

Relating To Kimchi Day.

NJ HB1950

Relating To Kimchi Day.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.