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RESOLVED:
1.            
That Milton Keynes is a thriving place that has consistently
welcomed people from diverse backgrounds that have enhanced our
city and contributed to the dynamism of our economic and social
fabric.
2.            
That this Council notes that:

a)      Tamil people have
made significant contributions to the social, economic and cultural
fabric of the UK; from serving in the Royal Air Force during the
World War Two, Tamil scientists working on ground-breaking Covid
vaccines, and an estimated 15,000 Tamil people working in the NHS,
amongst other achievements;

b)      the number of
Tamil speaking people in Milton Keynes is increasing, with the 2021
census highlighting 1 in 100 people in the city can speak Tamil;
and

c)      many Tamil people
came to Milton Keynes have experienced persecution and have rebuilt
their lives here while contributing and enhancing our city.
3.            
That this Council further notes:
a)      that January each year marks
Tamil Heritage Month;
b)      Pongal, the Harvest Festival,
takes place from January 14 each year; and
c)      that Tamil people make a rich
contribution to social, economic and cultural life in Milton
Keynes.
4.            
That this Council resolves to:
a)      thank the Tamil community for
their contribution to Milton Keynes and our country;
b)      mark Tamil history month in an
appropriate way;
c)      highlight the celebration of
Pongal; and
d)      use the communications channels
of the Council to raise awareness of these actions.