LEGISLATIVE RESOLUTION honoring John Mason upon the occasion of his
designation for special recognition by the Gathering of the Houses of
African Based Spiritual Belief Systems of New York City

WHEREAS, It is the sense of this Legislative Body to recognize that the
quality and character of life in the communities across New York State
are reflective of the concerned and dedicated efforts of those organiza-
tions and individuals who would devote themselves to the welfare of the
community and its citizenry; and
WHEREAS, This Legislative Body is justly proud to honor John Mason
upon the occasion of his designation for special recognition by the
Gathering of the Houses of African Based Spiritual Belief Systems of New
York City in conjunction with the Caribbean Cultural Center African
Diaspora Institute on Sunday, August 16, 2009; and
WHEREAS, This special event's title is "Ba M'buta: Ancestral
Connections from the Congo to the Americas"; and
WHEREAS, The Gathering of the Houses of African Based Spiritual Belief
Systems of New York City looks forward in honoring the elders of African
based spiritual belief systems who have managed to learn and pass on the
sacred wisdoms of African belief systems in the Americas; and
WHEREAS, A graduate of City College of New York, John Mason is one of
the major international priests of the Yoruba tradition, and is the most
published author on the subject; he has written numerous books on Yoruba
religion and culture, and has traveled extensively in Cuba and Nigeria
and consulted with many practitioners to obtain a vast treasure lode of
information; and
WHEREAS, A true asset to society, John Mason's distinguished record
merits the recognition and respectful tribute of this Legislative Body;
now, therefore, be it
RESOLVED, That this Legislative Body pause in its deliberations to
honor John Mason upon the occasion of his designation for special recog-
nition by the Gathering of the Houses of African Based Spiritual Belief
Systems of New York City; and be it further
RESOLVED, That a copy of this Resolution, suitably engrossed, be tran-
smitted to John Mason.