Senate Resolution No. 2207

BY: Senator PARKER

COMMENDING the Dan Washington, Jr., Memorial
Basketball Tournament upon the occasion of its
annual competition on June 4, 2026

WHEREAS, It is the sense of this Legislative Body to recognize and
pay tribute to those events and occasions whose commitment to the
dignity, inclusion, and celebration of individuals with intellectual and
developmental disabilities reflects the highest ideals of civic life in
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 Dan Washington, Jr., Memorial Basketball Tournament upon the
occasion of its annual competition on Thursday, June 4, 2026; and

WHEREAS, The Dan Washington, Jr., Memorial Basketball Tournament is
named in loving honor of Dan Washington, Jr., a cherished participant in
programs serving individuals with intellectual and developmental
disabilities whose spirit, enthusiasm, and presence left a lasting mark
on all who knew him; in naming this tournament in his memory, this
community affirms that the lives of those it serves are not incidental
to its mission, but are the very heart of it, and that their joy, their
legacy, and their capacity for greatness are worthy of celebration and
remembrance; and

WHEREAS, The Tournament brings together participants with
intellectual and developmental disabilities for a day of competitive
basketball, cheerleading, and skills showcases, providing the men and
women who participate the opportunity to do what every athlete wants: to
compete, to be cheered, to feel the thrill of the game, and to be
surrounded by a community that believes in their abilities and
celebrates their achievements without reservation; and

WHEREAS, Events, such as this tournament, embody a fundamental truth
that this Legislative Body affirms without hesitation: that inclusion is
not charity; that the participation of individuals with intellectual and
developmental disabilities in the full life of their communities is not
a gift to be bestowed but a right to be upheld; and that every person
deserves access to the joy, the competition, and the community that
athletics can provide; and

WHEREAS, Dan Washington, Jr.'s memory lives on in every participant
who takes the court, every cheer that fills the gym, and every moment of
athletic joy that this tournament makes possible - proof that a life
well-lived in community leaves a legacy that competition, fellowship,
and love can sustain long after one is gone; and

WHEREAS, This Legislative Body is proudly moved to honor the memory
of Dan Washington, Jr., the participants of this tournament, and all who
make this annual celebration of athletic excellence and human dignity
possible; now, therefore, be it

RESOLVED, That this Legislative Body pause in its deliberations to
commend the Dan Washington, Jr., Memorial Basketball Tournament on June
4, 2026, and to extend congratulations to all participants, coaches,
volunteers, and supporters who make this tournament a celebration worthy
of Dan Washington, Jr.'s memory; and be it further

RESOLVED, That copies of this Resolution, suitably engrossed, be
transmitted to the organizers, participants, and supporters of the Dan
Washington, Jr., Memorial Basketball Tournament in recognition of their
commitment to honoring his legacy through the power of sport, community,
and the full inclusion of every athlete who takes the court.