Senate Resolution No. 2080

BY: Senator PARKER

COMMEMORATING the Wyckoff House Museum's 2026
Pinkster Celebration on May 16, 2026, and
recognizing the enduring cultural and historical
significance of Pinkster in New York State

WHEREAS, It is the custom of this Legislative Body to recognize and
commemorate events and institutions that preserve, honor, and promote
the diverse cultural histories and traditions that have shaped the State
of New York and the Nation; and

WHEREAS, Attendant to such concern, this Legislative Body is proud
to commemorate the Wyckoff House Museum's 2026 Pinkster Celebration,
taking place on Saturday, May 16, 2026, at the historic Wyckoff House
Museum in Brooklyn, New York; and

WHEREAS, Pinkster is recognized as one of the oldest African
American celebrations in the United States, rooted in African cultural
traditions and historically observed by enslaved and free Africans in
New Netherland and throughout the Hudson Valley during the Dutch
Pentecost season; and

WHEREAS, During the 17th, 18th, and 19th centuries, Pinkster
provided enslaved Africans with a rare and meaningful opportunity for
rest, family reunification, artistic expression, spiritual observance,
music, dance, storytelling, and the preservation of African cultural
practices and communal traditions; and

WHEREAS, Over time, Pinkster evolved into a powerful symbol of
African resilience, resistance, cultural continuity, and collective joy,
occupying an important place in the historical and cultural development
of New York State and the broader African American experience; and

WHEREAS, The Wyckoff House Museum, recognized as the oldest
surviving structure in New York City and an important site of historical
education and preservation, has played a vital role in reviving and
elevating public awareness of Pinkster through educational programming,
community engagement, and cultural celebration; and

WHEREAS, The 2026 Pinkster Celebration will feature storytelling,
music, performances, and interactive cultural activities designed to
educate attendees about the history of Pinkster and its enduring legacy,
while fostering intergenerational learning, community connection, and
appreciation for the diverse cultural heritage of New York; and

WHEREAS, Through its continued stewardship of this important
tradition, the Wyckoff House Museum affirms the importance of preserving
African diasporic history, amplifying historically underrepresented
voices, and creating inclusive public spaces for cultural reflection and
celebration; and

WHEREAS, The observance of Pinkster offers all New Yorkers an
opportunity to reflect upon the resilience, creativity, and enduring

contributions of African Americans to the civic, cultural, and moral
fabric of the State of New York; now, therefore, be it

RESOLVED, That this Legislative Body pause in its deliberations to
commemorate the Wyckoff House Museum's 2026 Pinkster Celebration on May
16, 2026, and to recognize the historical and cultural significance of
Pinkster as an enduring symbol of African American resilience, heritage,
and community in New York State; and be it further

RESOLVED, That copies of this Resolution, suitably engrossed, be
transmitted to the leadership of the Wyckoff House Museum as an
expression of the esteem and gratitude of this Legislative Body for its
continued dedication to historical preservation, cultural education, and
community engagement.