Senate Resolution No. 2130

BY: Senator PARKER

COMMENDING the Caribbean American Social Workers
Association upon the occasion of its Annual
Caribbean Heritage Month Celebration on June 18,
2026

WHEREAS, It is the sense of this Legislative Body to recognize and
commend those distinguished organizations whose steadfast commitment to
advocacy, empowerment, and community service continues to enrich the
lives of individuals and families throughout 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
commend the Caribbean American Social Workers Association upon the
occasion of its Annual Caribbean Heritage Month Celebration, to be held
on June 18, 2026; and

WHEREAS, Caribbean Heritage Month serves as a meaningful opportunity
to celebrate the enduring contributions of Caribbean people and
Caribbean-Americans whose labor, culture, intellect, and leadership have
profoundly shaped the social, economic, civic, and cultural fabric of
New York State and the nation; and

WHEREAS, The Caribbean American Social Workers Association was
founded through the vision and dedication of Ismay Griffith, LCSW, and
Elaine Reid, LCSW, whose commitment to culturally responsive social work
and community empowerment established a foundation rooted in advocacy,
compassion, and service to Caribbean communities throughout New York;
and

WHEREAS, Under the leadership of President N. Melissa Harding, LMSW,
and Vice President Cheryl-Anne Clarke, MSW, the organization continues
to expand its mission of supporting vulnerable populations, promoting
mental wellness, advancing equity, and strengthening Caribbean-American
families through education, outreach, mentorship, and professional
collaboration; and

WHEREAS, Through the tireless efforts of its members and supporters,
the organization has advanced the vital mission of promoting access to
culturally competent social services while uplifting immigrant and
underserved communities with dignity, care, and respect; and

WHEREAS, Social workers serve as essential pillars within society,
often standing at the forefront of crisis intervention, youth
development, elder care, mental health advocacy, and community
empowerment, providing hope, guidance, and compassion to individuals and
families navigating life's challenges; and

WHEREAS, The Annual Caribbean Heritage Month Celebration not only
honors the rich history and traditions of the Caribbean diaspora, but
also recognizes the extraordinary impact of professionals and community
leaders whose work continues to strengthen neighborhoods and inspire
future generations; and

WHEREAS, The State of New York is home to one of the largest and
most vibrant Caribbean populations in the United States, and the
contributions of Caribbean-American social workers have been
instrumental in advancing justice, opportunity, and human dignity
throughout our communities; and

WHEREAS, It is fitting and proper that this Legislative Body pause
in its deliberations to recognize the Caribbean American Social Workers
Association for its outstanding commitment to service, cultural
preservation, and community advancement; now, therefore, be it

RESOLVED, That this Legislative Body pause in its deliberations to
commend the Caribbean American Social Workers Association upon the
occasion of its Annual Caribbean Heritage Month Celebration on June 18,
2026, and to extend sincere appreciation for its enduring contributions
to the Caribbean-American community and the people of the State of New
York; and be it further

RESOLVED, That a copy of this Resolution, suitably engrossed, be
transmitted to the leadership of the Caribbean American Social Workers
Association as a token of the esteem in which it is held.