Assembly Resolution No. 1418

BY: M. of A. Chandler-Waterman

COMMEMORATING the 104th Anniversary of Sigma Gamma
Rho Sorority, Inc., to be celebrated on November 12,
2026

WHEREAS, It is the sense of this Legislative Body to recognize that
the quality and character of life in communities across New York State
are reflective of the concerned and dedicated efforts of organizations
devoted to the welfare of the community and its citizenry; and

WHEREAS, Attendant to such concern, and in full accord with its
long-standing traditions, this Legislative Body is justly proud to
commemorate the 104th Anniversary of Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Inc., to
be celebrated on Thursday, November 12, 2026; and

WHEREAS, Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Inc. was organized on November
12, 1922, at Butler University in Indianapolis, Indiana, by seven young
educators: Mary Lou Allison Gardner Little, Dorothy Hanley Whiteside,
Vivian Irene White Marbury, Nannie Mae Gahn Johnson, Hattie Mae Annette
Dulin Redford, Bessie Mae Downey Rhoades Martin, and Cubena McClure; and

WHEREAS, Sigma Gamma Rho holds the unique distinction of being the
only member of the National Pan-Hellenic Council (NPHC) founded at a
predominantly white institution and the only NPHC sorority founded as a
professional organization; and

WHEREAS, Guided by its enduring slogan, "Greater Service, Greater
Progress," the sorority has grown into an international service
organization with over 100,000 members and more than 500 chapters
worldwide, including the United States, Canada, Germany, and the United
Arab Emirates; and

WHEREAS, The mission of Sigma Gamma Rho is to enhance the quality of
life for women and their families through community service, civil
action, and social action, focusing on education, health awareness, and
leadership development; and

WHEREAS, The sorority delivers essential community programming
through initiatives such as Project Cradle Care, raising awareness of
Black maternal and infant health; Swim 1922, addressing disproportionate
drowning rates; the Women's Wellness Initiative, focusing on physical,
mental, and emotional health; and Operation BigBookBag, equipping
at-risk children with school supplies; and

WHEREAS, Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Inc. demonstrates its commitment
to health and youth through Project Reassurance, the Hattie McDaniel
Cancer Awareness & Health Program, and affiliate groups like the Rhoer
Club for teenage girls and the Rhosebud Club for girls ages 8 to 11; and

WHEREAS, Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Inc. remains steadfast in
fostering civic engagement by addressing social inequalities and
improving community well-being through advocacy, legislative support,
and community service; members actively register voters, host voter
engagement forums, and partner with organizations like the NAACP for

census and election campaigns, while championing activism regarding
human trafficking, violence against women and girls, and the
organization of peaceful protests; and

WHEREAS, New York State is home to a vibrant community of Sigma
Gamma Rho members who join a global sisterhood of trailblazers that have
made significant contributions across all fields, including
entertainment icons like Hattie McDaniel and MC Lyte; sports
trailblazers like Maritza McClendon and Carmelita Jeter; distinguished
writers like Beverly Jenkins; and public servants in the U.S. House of
Representatives and the New York City Council; and

WHEREAS, It is the practice of this Legislative Body that when an
organization of such noble aims and accomplishments is brought to our
attention, it should be recognized and applauded by all the citizens of
this great Empire State; now, therefore, be it

RESOLVED, That this Legislative Body pause in its deliberations to
commemorate the 104th Anniversary of Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Inc., to
be celebrated on November 12, 2026; and be it further

RESOLVED, That a copy of this Resolution, suitably engrossed, be
transmitted to Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Inc.