Whereas the Happy Land Social Club fire was an act of arson that took the lives of 87 people on March 25, 1990, in the Bronx, in New York City;

Whereas the fire was the deadliest in New York City since the Triangle Shirtwaist Factory in 1911 and the most horrific mass murder New York City had ever known until 9/11;

Whereas the 87 victims were trapped in the unlicensed Happy Land Social Club, located at 1959 Southern Boulevard in the West Farms section of the Bronx;

Whereas most of the victims were young Hondurans, the majority of them part of the Garifuna-American community, as well as Puerto Ricans, Dominicans, African Americans, Americans, and other Latin Americans;

Whereas the tragedy exposed longstanding issues regarding building safety, fire code enforcement, and the need for stronger oversight of social establishments, prompting reforms that continue to protect lives today;

Whereas this human catastrophe exposed the need to strengthen fire safety regulations and building codes, including the requirement for automatic sprinkler systems and smoke alarms in nightclubs and other public assembly buildings;

Whereas it also prompted New York City to launch a comprehensive inspection and enforcement program to ensure that all existing and new places of assembly comply with the new safety regulations;

Whereas the Happy Land fire left an indelible mark on the Bronx, shaping its collective memory and reminding Americans of the profound human cost when public safety regulations are ignored;

Whereas countless first responders, community members, faith leaders, and families came together in the aftermath of the fire to offer support, comfort, and solidarity to those grieving unimaginable loss;

Whereas, decades later, the Bronx continues to honor the memory of the 87 victims, ensuring that their names and stories are never forgotten and that future generations remain vigilant in advocating for safety, dignity, and justice for all communities;

Whereas from the ashes of this horrific event emerged the modern celebration of the Central American Parade and Festival, and the celebration of Garifuna Heritage Month; and

Whereas local events, including the annual Memorial Mass organized by Bronx Community Board 6, will be held to remember the victims of the Happy Land Social Club fire, and to educate citizens about the important role this tragic event played in the history of New York: Now, therefore, be it