Senate Resolution No. 863

BY: Senator CLEARE

MOURNING the death of Alton Henry Maddox Jr.,
civil rights champion, distinguished citizen, and
devoted member of his community

WHEREAS, There are certain outstanding members of our community who,
through their selfless commitment and dedication, have served to better
the quality of life in our community and have had a measurable positive
impact on the lives of its residents; Alton Henry Maddox Jr. was one
such individual; and

WHEREAS, It is with profound sorrow and deep regret that this
Legislative Body records the passing of Alton Henry Maddox Jr., noting
the significance of his purposeful life and accomplishments; and

WHEREAS, Alton Henry Maddox Jr., a New York defense lawyer who rose
to prominence amid some of the most racially charged cases of the 1980s,
died on April 23, 2023, in the Bronx; he was 77 years old; and

WHEREAS, Born on July 21, 1945, in Inkster, Michigan, Alton Henry
Maddox Jr. grew up on Newnan, Georgia; he graduated from Howard
University with a Bachelor of Arts degree in 1967, before earning his
Juris Doctorate from Boston College Law School in 1971; and

WHEREAS, In 1973, Alton Henry Maddox Jr. worked at Harlem Legal
Services and later led the juvenile justice project of the National
Conference of Black Lawyers; he went on to start his own practice and
was involved in a variety of civil rights cases, cementing himself as a
civil rights advocate; and

WHEREAS, A legal genius who used his legal knowledge as a shield,
Alton Henry Maddox Jr. spent his life fighting on behalf of marginalized
people of color; and

WHEREAS, With a steadfast and unwavering commitment to his
profession, Alton Henry Maddox Jr. was Director of the National
Conference of Black Lawyers Juvenile Defense Project; he was also the
founder of the Center for Law and Social Justice at Medgar Evers College
and co-sponsored the 1983 Congressional hearings on Police Brutality in
New York City; and

WHEREAS, In addition, he often contributed to publications such as
Amsterdam News, and was a frequent guest on WLIB radio's Sharp Talk
program; he also gave many notable speeches at several colleges and
rallies; and

WHEREAS, Predeceased by his wife, Leola Weaver, Alton Henry Maddox
Jr. is survived by his son, Charles; and

WHEREAS, Alton Henry Maddox Jr.'s fight for justice and fairness
leaves behind a powerful legacy that will continue to inspire people
across our state and nation for generations to come; his insight and
strength will forever serve as a beacon of love, light and hope to the

countless lives he touched; he will be deeply missed and truly merits
the grateful tribute of this Legislative Body; now, therefore, be it

RESOLVED, That this Legislative Body pause in its deliberations to
mourn the death of Alton Henry Maddox Jr., and to express its deepest
condolences to his family; and be it further

RESOLVED, That a copy of this Resolution, suitably engrossed, be
transmitted to the family of Alton Henry Maddox Jr.