Senate Resolution No. 1866

BY: Senator PARKER

COMMENDING Eureka Grand Chapter, Prince Hall Order
of the Eastern Star upon the occasion of hosting
Esther Day: A Women's History Month Celebration on
March 30, 2026

WHEREAS, It is the custom of this Legislative Body to recognize and
honor those venerable institutions and distinguished bodies whose
commitment to faith, charity, and service uplifts humanity and
strengthens the moral fabric of our communities; and

WHEREAS, Attendant to such concern, and in full accord with its
long-standing traditions, this Legislative Body is justly proud to
commend the Prince Hall Grand Lodge of New York and the Eureka Grand
Chapter Prince Hall Order of the Eastern Star upon the auspicious
occasion of hosting Esther Day: A Women's History Month Celebration, to
be held on March 30, 2026, in the City of New York; and

WHEREAS, Prince Hall Freemasonry, founded upon the enduring
principles of Brotherly Love, Relief, and Truth, has for more than two
centuries stood as a beacon of light, leadership, and liberation,
advancing the moral, social, and educational uplift of its members and
the communities they serve; and

WHEREAS, Under the distinguished leadership of Most Worshipful Grand
Master Darren M. Morton, Ed.D., the Prince Hall Grand Lodge of New York
continues to exemplify a profound commitment to civic engagement,
charitable works, and the cultivation of principled leadership grounded
in faith and service; and

WHEREAS, The esteemed appendant body of the Grand Lodge, Eureka
Grand Chapter, Prince Hall Order of the Eastern Star, under the devoted
leadership of Grand Worthy Matron Marsha L. Mack and Grand Worthy Patron
Grant M. Valentine, stands as a testament to the power of sisterhood,
compassion, and charitable endeavor, faithfully advancing the principles
of charity, truth, and kindness; and

WHEREAS, Esther Day is a sacred and symbolic observance, inspired by
the Biblical Queen Esther, whose courage, wisdom, and unwavering faith
serve as a guiding light for women who lead with grace, strength, and
purpose in the face of adversity; and

WHEREAS, This distinguished celebration, held during Women's History
Month, honors a legacy of virtuous and trailblazing women who,
throughout generations, have labored faithfully within Prince
Hall-affiliated bodies and beyond-quietly shaping communities,
strengthening families, and advancing the sacred tenets of faith,
charity, and truth; and

WHEREAS, These women, walking in the spirit of Queen Esther, have
served as pillars of light and moral strength as educators, caregivers,
leaders, and advocates whose steadfast devotion and tireless service
have left an indelible mark upon the communities they uplift; and

WHEREAS, The women honored through this celebration-leaders in
business, journalism, law, public service, and community
advocacy-represent the living embodiment of excellence, continuing a
proud lineage of courage, dignity, and purposeful service; and

WHEREAS, The partnership between the Prince Hall Grand Lodge of New
York and the Eureka Grand Chapter reflects a sacred and enduring bond,
demonstrating that the collective strength of brothers and sisters
united in purpose can transform communities and elevate humanity; and

WHEREAS, It is fitting and proper that this Legislative Body pause
in its deliberations to recognize this sacred observance and to commend
the enduring legacy and contributions of women who lead, serve, and
inspire; now, therefore, be it

PROCLAIMED, That this Legislative Body recognize and commend the
Prince Hall Grand Lodge of New York and the Eureka Grand Chapter, Prince
Hall Order of the Eastern Star, upon the occasion of hosting Esther Day:
A Women's History Month Celebration on March 30, 2026; and be it further

RESOLVED, That this Legislative Body extend its highest appreciation
to the leadership, members, and honorees of this distinguished
celebration, and offer best wishes for continued strength, unity, and
faithful service; and be it further

RESOLVED, That copies of this Resolution, suitably engrossed, be
transmitted to the Prince Hall Grand Lodge of New York and the Eureka
Grand Chapter, Prince Hall Order of the Eastern Star, in recognition of
this meaningful and historic occasion.