Senate Resolution No. 878

BY: Senator GRIFFO

COMMENDING Alex Haley upon the occasion of his
posthumous induction into the Rome Arts Hall of Fame
on May 7, 2023

WHEREAS, It is the sense of this Legislative Body to honor and pay
tribute to those individuals whose commitment to promoting the richness
and diversity of the performing, visual, and literary arts, has
contributed to the strength, vitality, and cultural enrichment of their
communities and the great State of New York; and

WHEREAS, Attendant to such concern, and in full accord with its
long-standing traditions, this Legislative Body is justly proud to
commend Alex Haley upon the occasion of his posthumous induction into
the Rome Arts Hall of Fame on Sunday, May 7, 2023, at the Capitol
Theatre in Rome, New York; and

WHEREAS, Individuals devoted to improving the quality of life for
others, enabling them to build lives of dignity and self-worth are
deserving of the highest praise and recognition; Alex Haley was one such
individual; and

WHEREAS, Alex Haley lived in Rome, New York for several years during
the period in which he wrote Roots: The Saga of an American Family,
which was published in 1976, and the 1977 miniseries of the same name is
estimated to have attracted over 130 million viewers, greatly expanding
the reach of his literary arts to many beyond New York State to enjoy;
and

WHEREAS, The arts are the building blocks of civilization; they are
central to human expression; they enlighten us and inspire the
imagination; educational institutions, individuals, and organizations
which further such worthy purposes richly merit the recognition and
appreciation of this Legislative Body and the people of the State of New
York; now, therefore, be it

RESOLVED, That this Legislative Body pause in its deliberations to
commend Alex Haley upon the occasion of his posthumous induction into
the Rome Arts Hall of Fame on May 7, 2023; and be it further

RESOLVED, That a copy of this Resolution, suitably engrossed, be
transmitted to the family of Alex Haley.