SENATE JOINT MEMORIAL 24

49th legislature - STATE OF NEW MEXICO - first session, 2009

INTRODUCED BY

Timothy M. Keller

A JOINT MEMORIAL

RECOGNIZING THE AREA CENTERED AROUND LOUISIANA BETWEEN CENTRAL AND ZUNI, COMPRISING THE COMMUNITIES OF LA MESA, TRUMBULL, SOUTH SAN PEDRO, ELDER HOMESTEAD, FAIR WEST AND SURROUNDING AREAS, AS THE "INTERNATIONAL DISTRICT".

     WHEREAS, the communities and neighborhoods of La Mesa, Trumbull, South San Pedro, Fair West and Elder Homestead comprise a well known area of Albuquerque, Mew Mexico; and

     WHEREAS, the residents living in that community come from various countries of origin and have diverse ethnic, racial and national backgrounds; and

     WHEREAS, in that community, Native Americans and New Mexicans whose families have been in New Mexico for hundreds of years live alongside recent immigrants from Mexico, Central and South America, Asia, Europe, Africa and many other countries; and

     WHEREAS, many cultures, customs and faiths are represented in this diverse and vibrant part of the city; and

     WHEREAS, commerce in and around this area caters to a clientele from around the world; and

     WHEREAS, goods and services that are imported from around the world can be found in the area's markets and shops; and

     WHEREAS, restaurants in the area offer a wide variety of cuisine, representing a broad array of countries from six continents; and

     WHEREAS, within the area, expo New Mexico and the New Mexico state fair, featuring many agricultural activities and livestock shows, attract visitors from New Mexico, the United States and the world; and

     WHEREAS, the area borders Kirtland Air force Base, whose servicemen and service women serve tours of duty around the world; and

     WHEREAS, there are twenty-seven languages spoken at the local high school; and

     WHEREAS, the area is commonly recognized as the most international and culturally diverse area of New Mexico; and

     WHEREAS, community members and leaders intend to improve the image and recognition of the area as it continues its longstanding process of redevelopment; and

     WHEREAS, major metropolitan areas across the United States have received acclaim, revitalization and tourism by celebrating and identifying the vibrant and diverse international cultures of their communities and neighborhoods; and

     WHEREAS, hundreds of residents, business operators and local elected officials have held several public meetings, have had thoughtful discourse and have unanimously concluded that creating awareness of and leveraging the area's positive image are critical to rebuilding the community and supporting local business and property; and

     WHEREAS, efforts to create awareness of the community's vibrant and diverse culture, services and goods are supported by local county and city elected officials;

     NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE LEGISLATURE OF THE STATE OF NEW MEXICO that the area centered around Louisiana between Central and Zuni, comprising the communities of La Mesa, Trumbull, South San Pedro, Elder Homestead, Fair West and surrounding areas, shall be collectively know as the "International District"; and

     BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that copies of this memorial be transmitted to members of the media in Albuquerque and Santa Fe and to city and county officials representing the area.

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