105 STAT. 1226 PUBLIC LAW 102-177—DEC. 2, 1991 Public Law 102-177 102d Congress Joint Resolution Dec. 2, 1991 [H.J. Res. 130] Designating January 1, 1992, as "National Ellis Island Day". Whereas the immigrant station at Ellis Island, New York, opened on January 1, 1892, admitting 700 immigrants to the United States on its 1st day of operation; Whereas approximately 17,000,000 immigrants were admitted through Ellis Island between 1892 and 1954; Whereas Ellis Island was reopened in the fall of 1990 as a historic site of interest to tourists; Whereas January 1, 1992, will mark the centennial of the opening of Ellis Island; Whereas approximately 40 percent of all people of the United States today can trace their heritage to an immigrant ancestor who was admitted through Ellis Island; Whereas Ellis Island is a reminder of the hope for freedom and prosperity that the United States offered to the poor, tired, hungry, and downtrodden of the world; Whereas the people of the United States should recognize the time, commitment, and great efforts of the many dedicated citizens who made the refurbishing of Ellis Island the largest historic renovation project in the history of the United States; and Whereas the people of the United States have a responsibility to maintain awareness of, and respect for, Ellis Island: Now, therefore, be it Resolved by the Senate and House of Representatives of the United States of America in Congress assembled. That January 1, 1992, is designated as "National Ellis Island Day", and the President is authorized and requested to issue a proclamation calling on the people of the United States to observe the day with appropriate ceremonies and activities. Approved December 2, 1991. LEGISLATIVE HISTORY—H.J. Res. 130 (S.J. Res. 190): CONGRESSIONAL RECORD, Vol. 137 (1991): July 10, considered and passed House. Nov. 18, considered and passed Senate.
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