SENATE RESOLUTION NO. 84 WHEREAS, The Senate of the State of Texas is pleased to recognize the Albanian American Cultural Center and the members of the Albanian American community of Texas in honor of their many contributions to the Lone Star State, which were celebrated on November 28, 2023; and WHEREAS, The Albanian American Cultural Center was established in 1985 and registered as a nonprofit organization in 1996, and for the last three decades it has played an instrumental role in shaping the cultural and societal fabric of our great state; and WHEREAS, Before the center's founding, pioneering businessmen and public servants hailing from such regions as Kosovo, North Macedonia, and Montenegro laid the groundwork for a thriving Albanian American community in Texas, and their early endeavors set the stage for the establishment of the center and its subsequent expansion of services and community initiatives; and WHEREAS, The fall of communism in Albania in the 1990s and the devastating war that followed brought forth a wave of valiant newcomers who, inspired by the promise of freedom and prosperity, enriched the social tapestry of Texas with their unique skills; the Albanian American Cultural Center offered unwavering support, resources, and a welcoming community that allowed the refugees to find solace and opportunity in a land of peace; and WHEREAS, Today, there are more than 20,000 Albanian Americans in Texas who serve in a wide range of professions and fields including the arts, sciences, business, and academia, and the accomplishments of these extraordinary individuals are a testament to their enduring strength and determination; and WHEREAS, The Albanian American Cultural Center is the product of the resilience and dynamism of the Albanian American community, and the center's efforts to foster education and community development provide a beacon of hope and encouragement for families and individuals who value liberty and peace; now, therefore, be it RESOLVED, That the Senate of the State of Texas, 88th Legislature, 4th Called Session, hereby commend the Albanian American Cultural Center on its many positive contributions to our state and extend to all associated with the center best wishes for the future; and, be it further RESOLVED, That a copy of this Resolution be prepared for the center as an expression of esteem from the Texas Senate. Creighton ________________________________ President of the Senate I hereby certify that the above Resolution was adopted by the Senate on December 5, 2023. ________________________________ Secretary of the Senate ________________________________ Member, Texas Senate