LEGISLATIVE RESOLUTION commemorating the 25th Anniversary of 651 ARTS,
to be celebrated on May 1, 2014

WHEREAS, It is the sense of this Legislative Body that those insti-
tutions which give positive definition to the profile and disposition of
the communities of the State of New York profoundly strengthen our soci-
ety with their commitment; and
WHEREAS, Attendant to such concern, and in full accord with its long-
standing traditions, this Legislative Body is proud to commemorate the
25th Anniversary of 651 ARTS, to be celebrated on Thursday, May 1, 2014;
and
WHEREAS, 651 ARTS is a Brooklyn, New York, -based arts presenter of
theater, dance, and music established to deepen awareness of and appre-
ciation for contemporary performing arts and culture of the African
Diaspora, and to provide professional and creative opportunities for
performing artists of African descent; and
WHEREAS, For 25 remarkable years, this dynamic cultural organization
has fulfilled its unique mission, presenting live dance, music and thea-
ter events in venues throughout Brooklyn, maintaining a robust educa-
tional program that provides unique opportunities for youth in public
schools to engage with professional artists from around the globe, and
investing in artists by providing financial and other needed resources;
and
WHEREAS, In addition, 651 ARTS supports exchange between United
States-based and African artists in both the United States and Africa;
and
WHEREAS, Leveraging years of experience and leadership, 651 ARTS advo-
cates for artists, develops projects that impact the field of performing
arts, and provides expertise about the artists and art forms of the
African Diaspora to the community; and
WHEREAS, In the 25 years since its founding in 1988, 651 ARTS has
served the cultural life of New York City; from its auspicious inaugural
season which began with THE SAVOY BALLROOM, a program that recreated the
Big Band era, to more recent offerings, such as 2007-2008's Mississippi
Delta Heritage Project, a two-week festival that examined the vibrant
and rich connections between the Delta Blues and the diverse musical
genres of gospel and jazz, and this year's Companhia Urbana de Danca, a
mix of contemporary Brazilian dance and hip-hop, the organization has
truly showcased the beauty, diversity, and tremendous cultural gifts of
artists of African descent; and
WHEREAS, This Legislative Body recognizes the importance of the arts,
which act to inspire, enlighten, and unify people from all cultural
backgrounds through the transcendent power of human expression; and
WHEREAS, It is the practice of this Legislative Body to honor and pay
tribute to those organizations whose endeavors and artistic vision have
contributed to the entertainment and cultural enrichment of the citizens
of the State of New York; now, therefore, be it
RESOLVED, That this Legislative Body pause in its deliberations to
commemorate the 25th Anniversary of 651 ARTS, and to wish it continued
success in future years; and be it further
RESOLVED, That a copy of this Resolution, suitably engrossed, be tran-
smitted to 651 ARTS.