sr1205_Read_and_adopted_LC_95_0833_2.html
08 LC 95 0833
Senate Resolution 1205
By: Senator Balfour of the 9th

A RESOLUTION


Commending the European Union and recognizing May 9, 2008, as "Europe Day"; and for other purposes.

WHEREAS, although we are separated by thousands of miles of ocean and by different cultural identities, we all are similar, and just as the United States banded together in its infancy for control of our destiny, the European Union countries have united to promote better economic prosperity, peace, and international cooperation; and

WHEREAS, just as the United States has individual states working toward the good of not only each state but also the nation as a whole, the European Union has countries that work together in joint endeavors to benefit all of the involved nations; and

WHEREAS, just as the United States appreciates its diversity while being bound together with common values, ideals, and democratic principles, the European Union joins diversely unique countries, peoples, and languages to foster cooperation, social programs, economic endeavors, and democracy; and

WHEREAS, just as the United States functions as one nation under a centralized democratic government, the European Union oversees and makes policies and decisions on issues that direct the everyday lives of the people in different countries; and

WHEREAS, on May 9, 1950, Robert Schuman, the French foreign minister, published a declaration of the need to preserve peace and increase prosperity by creating a common economic foundation, marking the beginning of the European Union; and

WHEREAS, the European Union has established a parliament and a judicial system and has normalized trade and monetary policy among its members; and

WHEREAS, the European Union has promoted peace and prosperity for its members; and
WHEREAS, the existence of the European Union gives hope to all people of the world that governments will follow the rule of law, provide security for their citizens, and avoid war; and

WHEREAS, May 9th is celebrated in the countries of the European Union as "Europe Day" and as a time for celebration of the European Union's accomplishments and reflection upon the challenges that lie ahead.

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE SENATE that the members of this body join together in commending the European Union for its accomplishments and recognize May 9, 2008, as "Europe Day."