Senate Resolution No. 1258

BY: Senator SEPULVEDA

HONORING Bernie Williams for his outstanding
representation of the Puerto Rican baseball
community and his dedicated charitable work
benefiting the people of New York State

WHEREAS, It is the sense of this Legislative Body to recognize and
celebrate individuals whose life and work uplift communities, promote
cultural pride, and serve as a source of inspiration to people across
the State of New York; and

WHEREAS, Bernie Williams, a Major League Baseball icon, proud Puerto
Rican, and tireless community advocate, has long exemplified excellence
not only on the field but through his deep and ongoing commitment to
charitable service and cultural representation; and

WHEREAS, Born in San Juan, Puerto Rico, Bernie Williams rose to
international acclaim as a centerfielder for the New York Yankees,
playing his entire 16-year MLB career in New York, during which he
became a four-time World Series Champion, five-time All-Star, and one of
the most respected figures in the sport; and

WHEREAS, Over his 16-year Major League Baseball career, all with the
Yankees, Bernie Williams compiled a .297 career batting average, won
four Gold Glove Awards, and remains among the franchise's all-time
leaders in hits, doubles, and postseason records; and

WHEREAS, Bernie Williams has served as a powerful and positive
representative of the Puerto Rican community in baseball, inspiring
young athletes of Puerto Rican descent across New York and beyond by
showing that hard work, humility, and pride in one's heritage can lead
to greatness; and

WHEREAS, Throughout his career and into retirement, Bernie Williams
has consistently given back, supporting youth development, education,
music programs, and health initiatives, helping to uplift underserved
communities throughout the State of New York, particularly in urban
neighborhoods; and

WHEREAS, He has worked tirelessly to raise awareness and funding for
critical causes, including idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF), which
personally affected his family, and has championed access to music
education through national and local partnerships that benefit students
throughout New York; and

WHEREAS, Bernie Williams' legacy continues to reach far beyond
baseball, as he uses his platform to advocate for cultural unity,
educational opportunities, and compassionate community outreach, always
remaining true to his Puerto Rican roots and committed to the well-being
of the people of New York; now, therefore, be it

RESOLVED, That this Legislative Body pause in its deliberations to
honor Bernie Williams for his extraordinary contributions as a
representative of the Puerto Rican community in Major League Baseball

and for his continued charitable work that enriches lives across the
State of New York; and be it further

RESOLVED, That a copy of this Resolution, suitably engrossed, be
transmitted to Bernie Williams in recognition of his enduring impact on
both the Puerto Rican community and the State of New York.