Senate Resolution No. 1962

BY: Senator PALUMBO

HONORING influential Black authors upon the
occasion of their designation for special
recognition at the 4th Annual Black Authors Festival
on August 1, 2026

WHEREAS, It is the custom of the Legislative Body to pay tribute to
those illustrious thought leaders of their community, who strive to
support literacy and the creation of powerful stories to uplift the
Black community; and

WHEREAS, Attendant to such concern, and in full accord with its
long-standing traditions, this Legislative Body is justly proud to honor
influential Black authors upon the occasion of their designation for
special recognition at the 4th Annual Black Authors Festival on
Saturday, August 1, 2026, at the Black Authors Festival in Sag Harbor,
New York; and

WHEREAS, Celebrating the power of words and Black authors, the Black
Authors Festival aims to support literacy and honor influential Black
authors and thought leaders in the community; it was founded by two
professional Black women who curated the renowned event to acquaint and
re-acquaint Black people with the notion of penning and publishing their
own stories; and

WHEREAS, The honorees being featured at the Black Authors Festival
are: Darlene Williams, a cultural leader and founder of the Black
Authors Festival who advances literacy, intellectual freedom, and
meaningful dialogue by elevating and connecting Black authors, readers,
and thought leaders; Maurice L. Williams, LMSW, MA, a social worker and
nonprofit leader who, as Vice President of the Black Authors Festival
and Executive Director of A Father's Love, advances literacy,
mentorship, and community empowerment through leadership, education, and
cultural engagement; Dr. Mathew Knowles, a renowned music executive and
founder of Music World Entertainment who shaped the global music
industry by developing iconic artists like Destiny's Child and Beyonce
through visionary leadership and strategic innovation; Rickey Smiley, a
nationally recognized comedian and media personality who, through his
radio show, television work, and philanthropy, uses humor and
storytelling to entertain audiences while promoting community
engagement, youth development, and social awareness; Tiffany Cross, an
award-winning journalist and political commentator who uses her media
platforms and writing to elevate conversations on politics, race, and
social justice while advocating for informed civic engagement and the
empowerment of underrepresented voices; Jamie Arty, an author and
preservationist who blends storytelling, historical research, and
restoration to inspire appreciation for heritage, identity, and the
enduring power of home; Michelle Miller, an award-winning CBS News
correspondent and co-host who delivers impactful journalism and
storytelling that informs audiences while highlighting diverse voices,
human experiences, and issues of national importance; A'Lelia Bundles,
an award-winning journalist, author, and cultural historian who
preserves and shares African American history by documenting the legacy
of Madam C. J. Walker and highlighting stories of entrepreneurship,

empowerment, and cultural achievement; Reverend Dr. A. R. Bernard, Sr.,
a pastor, author, and faith leader who has shaped spiritual, civic, and
cultural life for over four decades by guiding congregants, advising
leaders, and promoting faith-driven community empowerment; Jamaal
Bernard, Sr., Senior Pastor of the Christian Cultural Center, guiding
the congregation with faith-driven leadership that honors its legacy
while advancing spiritual growth, community outreach, and empowerment
for the next generation; Tyrus Hinton, an author, speaker, coach, and
nonprofit leader who empowers individuals and families through
resilience, faith, and personal transformation while advancing community
support, mentorship, and confidence-building initiatives; Ruth D.
Allman, an author and storyteller who inspires children to embrace
creativity, music, and collaboration, using her writing to promote
imagination, empathy, and the transformative power of the arts; Rochell
Sleets, Editor-in-Chief of Newsday and a trailblazing journalist who
leads the newsroom with visionary leadership, fostering editorial
excellence, community-focused reporting, and mentorship while advancing
diverse voices in local journalism; and Amaryllis Greene, a young
author, actress, and creative advocate whose work in poetry,
performance, and community engagement inspires self-expression,
confidence, and creativity among youth while celebrating curiosity and
emerging voices; and

WHEREAS, It is the sense of this Legislative Body that the
remarkable achievements and contributions of these influential Black
authors deserve the highest recognition, and that their dedication to
literacy, cultural preservation, and empowerment serves as an
inspiration to all citizens of the Empire State; now, therefore, be it

RESOLVED, That this Legislative Body pause in its deliberations to
honor influential Black authors upon the occasion of their designation
for special recognition at the 4th Annual Black Authors Festival on
August 1, 2026; and be it further

RESOLVED, That copies of this Resolution, suitably engrossed, be
transmitted to the aforementioned honorees and the Black Authors
Festival Board.