New Jersey Senate Bill SCR108

New Jersey 2022-2023 Regular Session

• Introduced: 5/9/22
• Refer: 5/9/22
• Report Pass: 5/19/22
• Engrossed: 6/16/22
• Refer: 6/16/22
• Report Pass: 12/14/23

Caption

Recognizes and honors contributions of Malayalee people of NJ.

Impact

SCR108 expresses the state's recognition of the Malayalee community's contributions across various fields such as science, medicine, literature, art, education, business, public service, and religion. The resolution is intended to promote cultural appreciation and inclusivity within the state legislation, reflecting a commitment to representing the diverse linguistic and ethnic makeup of New Jersey. By honoring this community, the resolution aims to foster a sense of pride among Malayalees and emphasize their role in the state's history and development.

Summary

Senate Concurrent Resolution No. 108 (SCR108) aims to recognize and honor the contributions of the Malayalee people in New Jersey. The Malayalee people, originating from the state of Kerala in India, are identified as speakers of the Malayalam language. According to the 2012 census, there were 644,097 individuals with Malayalee heritage in the U.S., with the highest concentration in Bergen County, New Jersey. This resolution seeks to acknowledge their unique cultural contributions and significant role in enriching the diversity of the state.

Contention

While SCR108 has been introduced with the intent of honoring a specific cultural group, discussions surrounding such resolutions can sometimes evoke differing opinions, particularly regarding the allocation of state recognition among various ethnic groups. Concerns may arise over whether specific recognitions could lead to perceived favoritism or exclusion of other communities. Nevertheless, resolutions like SCR108 play a pivotal role in acknowledging and celebrating cultural diversity, which can enhance community relations and promote unity among different ethnicities in New Jersey.