ME HP1508

Recognizes Lunar New Year 2026 and the Year of the Horse, which began on February 17, 2026

Acknowledges Lunar New Year as a 4,000-year-old tradition originating in China, now celebrated by over a billion people worldwide including in South Korea (Seollal) and Vietnam (Tet Nguyen Dan)

Affirms the importance of celebrating Lunar New Year traditions to provide visibility and safety to Asian communities experiencing ongoing marginalization, hatred, and violence

Encourages local, state, and national observances along with educational programs about the holiday's history, symbolism, and cultural significance

Reaffirms Maine's commitment to recognizing cultural traditions that contribute to the state's multicultural identity