Senate Resolution No. 2231

BY: Senator PARKER

COMMEMORATING the inaugural Prince Hall Day at the
New York State Capitol on May 7, 2024

WHEREAS, It is the sense of this Legislative Body to recognize and
pay tribute to those organizations of high purpose and worthy
accomplishment whose endeavors have faithfully served the welfare of the
citizens of the State of New York; and

WHEREAS, Attendant to such concern, and in full accord with its
long-standing traditions, this Legislative Body is justly proud to
commemorate the inaugural Prince Hall Day at the New York State Capitol
on Tuesday, May 7, 2024, and welcome Prince Hall Masons from across the
State of New York; and

WHEREAS, It is justly important to recognize the history and
tradition of Freemasonry dating back to 1775, in which the Prince Hall
began its fight to become Masons and be recognized along with other
African American community members as the first African American Lodge,
known as African Lodge No.459; and

WHEREAS, The dedicated Masons of New York are men with a social
conscience and a charitable perspective, who are also known as
Freemasons; they are part of a fraternal organization that shares common
moral ideals and esoteric values which are based on the doctrine of
Brotherly Love, Relief and Truth; and

WHEREAS, The hardships, trials, and tribulations faced over their
enduring history cemented the long-standing resolve, privilege, and
pride that comes with rights of each Master Mason in their respected
lodge; and

WHEREAS, This esteemed and inaugural occasion presents an
opportunity to set aside time to recognize members of the Prince Hall
lodges, past and present, who have worked to deliver present day Masons
to their current position and status which they so proudly cherish; and

WHEREAS, Under the able leadership, guidance, and steady hand of
Worshipful Master Gregory R. Smith Jr., Grand Master, the son of past
Grand Master Gregory R. Smith Sr., the New York Prince Hall Masons have
continued not only their amazing charitable works and deeds across the
State, but have been a point of unity in the community serving as a sign
of peace, hope, and love in the Black and Brown Community; and

WHEREAS, The Prince Hall Masons are, and always has been,
characterized by an impressive commitment, an unbridled enthusiasm, and
an uncompromising standard of excellence in all endeavors on behalf of
the community and organization which they serve so dedicatedly; and

WHEREAS, This Legislative Body is proudly moved to commend and honor
The Prince Hall Masons of New York who have labored so conscientiously
to secure and improve the quality of life for the community it serves;
now, therefore, be it

RESOLVED, That this Legislative Body pause in its deliberations to
commemorate the inaugural Prince Hall Day at the New York State Capitol
on May 7, 2024; and be it further

RESOLVED, That copies of this Resolution, suitably engrossed, be
transmitted to the Most Worshipful Prince Hall Grand Lodge of New York.