On February 4, Governor Cuomo issued a proclamation recognizing Lunar New Year Day as a deep-rooted day of celebration for Asian and Pacific Islander communities. February 12 will mark the beginning of the “Year of the Ox,” an animal whose association with hard work and diligence has universal relevance amid the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. In these challenging times, Governor Cuomo calls upon all New Yorkers to “join in spirit with our Asian and Pacific Islander communities and wish them the very best in welcoming Lunar New Year 4719, as we look forward to an end to the worldwide suffering and loss in the near future and to peace and good health for all.”