Assembly Resolution No. 667

BY: M. of A. Solages

LEGISLATIVE RESOLUTION memorializing Governor Kathy C. Hochul to proclaim October 17, 2023, as Black Poetry Day in the State of New York

WHEREAS, It is the sense of this Legislative Body, in keeping with its time-honored traditions, to recognize and pay tribute to those who seek to preserve and celebrate the African-American heritage of our State and Nation; and

WHEREAS, Attendant to such concern, and in full accord with its long-standing traditions, this Legislative Body is justly proud to memorialize Governor Kathy C. Hochul to proclaim October 17, 2023, as Black Poetry Day in the State of New York, in conjunction with the observance of National Black Poetry Day; and

WHEREAS, October 17, 1711, was the birth date of the Black poet, Jupiter Hammon, a slave of the Lloyd Family of the Plantation of Queens Village, New York, an area of Long Island now known as Caumset State Park; and

WHEREAS, On December 25, 1760, Jupiter became the first African-American to publish his own poem, "An Evening Thought: Salvation by Christ, with Penitential Cries"; and

WHEREAS, Since the fall of 1970, through the efforts of Stanley Ransom, former Director, Huntington Public Library, an unofficial Black Poetry Day has been celebrated in parts of New York State; and

WHEREAS, This date has been gaining popularity as an occasion to recognize the many Black poets in our state; and

WHEREAS, The noted author, Julius Lester, has suggested "Poetry is the major expression of Black experience," and the poet, Nikki Giovanni has said, "Poetry is part of the strong oral tradition of Black people"; and

WHEREAS, Throughout the course of American history, Black poets and writers have used their great talents to share the richness of the African-American experience and to develop a uniquely American style of literature enjoyed throughout the world; on October 17, 2023, we honor Jupiter Hammon, a true pioneer of African-American poetry, along with today's artists who continue his legacy; and

WHEREAS, Events which provide a means of preserving a part of our rich American past and which contribute to the community in such noble endeavors, are held in the highest regard by this Legislative Body; now, therefore, be it

RESOLVED, That this Legislative Body pause in its deliberations to memorialize Governor Kathy C. Hochul to proclaim October 17, 2023, as Black Poetry Day in the State of New York; and be it further

RESOLVED, That a copy of this Resolution, suitably engrossed, be transmitted to The Honorable Kathy Hochul, Governor of the State of New York.