HOUSE JOINT MEMORIAL 11

51th legislature - STATE OF NEW MEXICO - first session, 2013

INTRODUCED BY

Brian F. Egolf, Jr.

A JOINT MEMORIAL

REQUESTING THE GOVERNOR TO DECLARE THE FOURTH SATURDAY IN JULY AS "NATIONAL DAY OF THE COWBOY" IN NEW MEXICO.

     WHEREAS, pioneering men and women known as cowboys helped establish America's frontiers; and

     WHEREAS, the cowboy archetype transcends gender, generations, ethnicity, geographic boundaries and political affiliations; and

     WHEREAS, the cowboy embodies honesty, integrity, courage, compassion and determination; and

     WHEREAS, the cowboy-vaquero spirit exemplifies patriotism and strength of character; and

     WHEREAS, the cowboy is an excellent steward of the land and its creatures; and

     WHEREAS, the core values expressed within the cowboy code of conduct continue to inspire the pursuit of the highest caliber of personal integrity; and

     WHEREAS, cowboy and ranching traditions have been part of the American landscape and culture since 1523, and today's cowboys and cowgirls continue to strive to preserve and perpetuate this unique element of America's heritage; and

     WHEREAS, annual attendance at rodeos exceeds thirty million fans worldwide; and

     WHEREAS, membership and participation in the national day of the cowboy organization, single action shooting society, working ranch rodeo association, cowboy mounted shooting association, American quarter horse association, pro rodeo cowboys association, championship bull riding, working ranch rodeo, women's pro rodeo, U.S. team roping, the western music association and other organizations that encompass the livelihood of the cowboy continue to expand both nationally and internationally; and

     WHEREAS, the cowboy and the cowboy's horse are central figures in literature, art, film, poetry, photography and music; and

     WHEREAS, the cowboy is a true American icon, occupying a central place in the public's imagination;

     NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE LEGISLATURE OF THE STATE OF NEW MEXICO that the governor be requested to designate the fourth Saturday in July as "National Day of the Cowboy" in New Mexico; and

     BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that a copy of this memorial be transmitted to the governor.

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