Senate Resolution No. 1576

BY: Senator PARKER

HONORING First Central Baptist Church upon the
occasion of hosting its 21st Annual Staten Island
Black History Town Hall on February 21, 2026

WHEREAS, It is the sense of this Legislative Body to recognize and
commend institutions of faith and community leadership whose enduring
commitment to justice, education, service, and civic engagement has
strengthened the social fabric and moral foundation of the 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 honor
First Central Baptist Church upon the occasion of hosting its 21st
Annual Staten Island Black History Town Hall, to be held on Saturday,
February 21, 2026; and

WHEREAS, Established in 1978 in the Stapleton section of Staten
Island by a small group of devoted believers, First Central Baptist
Church has grown from humble beginnings into a respected spiritual and
community institution, rooted in worship, service, education, and a
steadfast commitment to uplifting underserved communities; and

WHEREAS, For nearly five decades, First Central Baptist Church has
served as both a house of worship and a center for community life,
expanding its mission through the development of the Central Family Life
Center and the delivery of programs addressing education, youth
development, senior services, health awareness, economic empowerment,
and social support; and

WHEREAS, Since 2005, First Central Baptist Church has been led by
Rev. Dr. Demetrius S. Carolina, Sr., a widely respected pastor,
educator, and advocate for justice and human rights, whose ministry has
emphasized spiritual empowerment, educational equity, economic justice,
and transformative community engagement at the local, national, and
global levels; and

WHEREAS, Rev. Dr. Carolina is the founder of the Staten Island Black
History Town Hall, a landmark annual forum that, for more than two
decades, has created space for reflection, education, and dialogue,
honoring Black history and achievement while addressing critical issues
related to health, wellness, equity, and the collective future of the
Staten Island community; and

WHEREAS, Through its programming and partnerships, the town hall has
become one of Staten Island's most enduring civic gatherings, fostering
unity across generations, strengthening collaboration among faith-based
and community organizations, and elevating voices committed to justice,
resilience, and shared progress; and

WHEREAS, The 21st Annual Staten Island Black History Town Hall,
convening under the theme "Thriving Together, Through It All," reflects
the enduring strength and perseverance of the community, affirming a

collective commitment to healing, empowerment, and the well-being of
mind, body, and spirit; now, therefore, be it

RESOLVED, That this Legislative Body pause in its deliberations to
honor First Central Baptist Church upon the occasion of hosting its 21st
Annual Staten Island Black History Town Hall on February 21, 2026, and
to recognize this meaningful event for its significant and lasting
contributions to education, civic engagement, and community empowerment;
and be it further

RESOLVED, That copies of this Resolution, suitably engrossed, be
transmitted to Rev. Dr. Demetrius S. Carolina, Sr., and to the
leadership and congregation of First Central Baptist Church, as a
lasting expression of the respect and appreciation of the New York State
Legislature.