INTERNATIONAL JAZZ DAY AND JAZZ APPRECIATION MONTH

            WHEREAS, jazz is an original American art form that affirms the noblest aspirations of our national character, individual discipline, perseverance, and innovation; and

            WHEREAS, Jazz has produced some of America's leading creative artists and ranks as one of America's greatest exports to the world; and

            WHEREAS, jazz has inspired dancers, choreographers, poets, novelists, filmmakers, classical composers, and musicians in many other kinds of music; and

            WHEREAS, we honor and recognize the outstanding work that all jazz artists, educators, and enthusiasts present; and

            WHEREAS, jazz has spoken eloquently of freedom for people in the United States and abroad, and has become an international language that bridges differences and brings people of all races, ages, and backgrounds together; and

            WHEREAS, on April 30, 2014 cities will celebrate International Jazz Day and mayors are encouraged to plan jazz related activities and programming; and

            WHEREAS, The United States Conference of Mayors members participated in Jazz Day and Jazz Appreciation Month for the past six years; and

            WHEREAS, the month of April 2014 has been designated as Jazz Appreciation Month,

            NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the United States Conference of Mayors urges mayors to build partnerships with their local jazz society and other members of the arts and music community in their cities to proclaim, to participate in, International Jazz Day April 30, 2014 and to celebrate the month of April as Jazz Appreciation Month.