LEGISLATIVE RESOLUTION honoring Spike and Tonya Lee upon the occasion of
their designation for special recognition by the Museum of Contemporary
African Diasporan Arts

WHEREAS, It is the custom of this Legislative Body to pay tribute to
those individuals of artistic significance whose creative talents have
contributed to the cultural enrichment of our communities and our
Nation; and
WHEREAS, Attendant to such concern, and in full accord with its long-
standing traditions, this Legislative Body is justly proud to honor
Spike and Tonya Lee upon the occasion of their designation for special
recognition by the Museum of Contemporary African Diasporan Arts, cele-
brated on Thursday, May 14, 2015, in Brooklyn, New York; and
WHEREAS, The Museum of Contemporary African Diasporan Arts (MoCADA)
uses the visual arts as a point of departure for exploring new artistic
productions across a variety of disciplines; through exhibitions and
programming, MoCADA incites dialogue on pressing social and political
issues facing the African Diaspora, and fosters a dynamic space for the
creation and continuous evolution of African Diaspora culture; and
WHEREAS, A proud Brooklyn native, Spike Lee is an accomplished produc-
er, director, writer and actor whose works have explored race relations,
political issues and urban life; and
WHEREAS, Tonya Lee is a producer, writer, and artist, whose works
include THE WATSONS GO TO BIRMINGHAM, MISTRESS OF MODERNISM and SHE'S
ALL THAT; and
WHEREAS, This esteemed married couple have been called upon to
contribute their time and talents to countless civic and philanthropic
endeavors and have always given of themselves unstintingly; and
WHEREAS, Throughout the entire period of their community service, a
period of constructive involvement, Spike and Tonya Lee have stood
constant in dignity, good grace and humor; and
WHEREAS, Rare indeed is the impressive dedication shown by individuals
for the benefit of others which Spike and Tonya Lee have displayed
throughout their lives; and
WHEREAS, It is the sense of this Legislative Body that when artistic
creators of such remarkable talent and accomplishments are brought to
our attention, they should be celebrated and recognized by all the citi-
zens of this great Empire State; now, therefore, be it
RESOLVED, That this Legislative Body pause in its deliberations to
honor Spike and Tonya Lee upon the occasion of their designation for
special recognition by the Museum of Contemporary African Diasporan
Arts; and be it further
RESOLVED, That a copy of this Resolution, suitably engrossed, be tran-
smitted to Spike and Tonya Lee.