Senate Resolution No. 2210

BY: Senator WEBB

MOURNING the death of Billie D. Anderson, a
dedicated mother, fierce advocate for justice and
civil rights, and distinguished member of her
community

WHEREAS, There are certain outstanding members of our community who,
through their selfless commitment and dedication, have served to better
the quality of life in our community and have had a measurable positive
impact on the lives of its residents; Billie D. Anderson was one such
individual; and

WHEREAS, It is with profound sorrow and deep regret that this
Legislative Body records the passing of Billie D. Anderson, noting the
significance of her purposeful life and accomplishments; and

WHEREAS, Billie D. Anderson of Binghamton, New York, died on Sunday,
July 23, 2023, at the age of 91; and

WHEREAS, Born in the South, Billie D. Anderson moved to Binghamton
in 1945 with her family in hopes of finding equality but was met with
more discrimination; when her own son became the target of this
discrimination she began advocating to diversify the Binghamton School
Board and was able to bring in African American teachers and counselors;
and

WHEREAS, Furthermore, she organized bus trips to Washington and
Albany, speaking out against racism and inequality in employment,
criminal justice, and education; and

WHEREAS, A trailblazer with a strong voice for disenfranchised and
marginalized individuals throughout Broome County, Billie D. Anderson
stood for rights, equality, and justice for all; and

WHEREAS, For 30 years, Billie D. Anderson worked at Opportunities
for Broome assisting individuals and families to improve the quality of
their lives through the development of self-reliance, while promoting a
culture of people working together to help themselves, one another, and
their community; and

WHEREAS, Billie D. Anderson was a champion for civil and human
rights; she fearlessly fought for equality, lending her unwavering voice
to uplift the oppressed and strived for a better and more just world;
her dedication to these causes knew no bounds, and her work was
instrumental in revitalizing the Broome-Tioga NAACP, ensuring that the
organization remained a beacon of hope for those who sought fairness,
and inclusivity, and justice; and

WHEREAS, A woman of indomitable faith and dedication, Billie D.
Anderson was also an active member of Trinity AME Zion Church in
Binghamton; and

WHEREAS, While she was passionate about many things, above all her
greatest passion was being a mother to her six children, whom she raised
to always stand up for what they believe in; and

WHEREAS, A freedom fighter and leader who took initiative and
founded numerous community service projects, Billie D. Anderson's
tireless efforts within the local jail system and the public school
system further demonstrated her unyielding commitment to helping those
in need; and

Whereas, Billie D. Anderson's legacy will forever be etched in the
hearts of the countless individuals she touched; her unwavering
dedication, unapologetic tenacity, and profound compassion will inspire
future generations to stand up and speak out for justice and combat
injustice in its many forms; now, therefore be it

RESOLVED, That this Legislative Body pause in its deliberations to
mourn the death of Billie D. Anderson, and to express its deepest
condolences to her family; and be it further

RESOLVED, That a copy of this Resolution, suitably engrossed, be
transmitted to the family of Billie D. Anderson.