Senate Resolution No. 344

BY: Senator PARKER

HONORING Doric Lodge No. 53 upon the occasion of
hosting its Legacy of Service Black History Event,
featuring Damien Jack as keynote speaker, on
February 22, 2025

WHEREAS, It is the sense of this Legislative Body to recognize and
honor those esteemed institutions and individuals whose commitment to
service, education, and leadership has left a profound impact on their
communities and beyond; and

WHEREAS, Attendant to such concern, and in full accord with its
long-standing traditions, this Legislative Body is justly proud to
commemorate Black History Month and to honor Doric Lodge No. 53 upon the
occasion of hosting its Legacy of Service Black History Event, featuring
Brother Damien Jack as keynote speaker on Saturday, February 22, 2025;
and

WHEREAS, Black History Month serves as a time to celebrate and
reflect upon the achievements, resilience, and enduring contributions of
African Americans throughout history, recognizing their role in shaping
the cultural, social, and political landscape of the United States; and

WHEREAS, Since its founding in 1916, Doric Lodge No. 53 has remained
a beacon of Masonic brotherhood, leadership, and community service,
guided by the core principles of Brotherly Love, Relief, and Truth; and

WHEREAS, Officially chartered in 1917 under the Most Worshipful
Grand Lodge of the Most Ancient and Honorable Fraternity of Free and
Accepted Masons of the State of New York, and later warranted under the
Most Worshipful Prince Hall Grand Lodge of New York in 1921, Doric Lodge
No. 53 has provided unwavering service to the community for over a
century; and

WHEREAS, Through the perseverance and dedication of its members, the
Lodge realized its long-standing dream of securing a permanent home,
purchasing its current location at 95 Westbury Blvd., Hempstead, NY, in
1975 under the leadership of Worshipful Master Emurray Clopton, a
milestone that symbolizes the Lodge's enduring commitment to stability,
unity, and community empowerment; and

WHEREAS, The Legacy of Service Black History Event is a testament to
the Lodge's dedication to honoring history, uplifting future
generations, and fostering dialogue on the past, present, and future of
African American leadership and excellence; and

WHEREAS, This year's event is further distinguished by the presence
of esteemed Brother Damien Jack as keynote speaker, a distinguished
Mason and committed community leader whose extensive involvement in
Masonic and fraternal organizations, including Paul Drayton Lodge No. 7
MWPHGL of NC, Excelsior Chapter No. 44, and Charlotte Consistory No. 35
AASR, exemplifies the highest ideals of service and dedication; and

WHEREAS, In his professional life, Brother Damien Jack serves as a
Psychiatric Technician for Atrium Behavioral Health, demonstrating his
commitment to the mental and emotional well-being of individuals in
need, embodying the Masonic principle of service to humanity; and

WHEREAS, The Legacy of Service Black History Event provides a unique
opportunity to celebrate Black excellence, leadership, and service,
while recognizing the invaluable contributions of Doric Lodge No. 53 and
Brother Damien Jack in advancing knowledge, empowerment, and unity
within the community; and

WHEREAS, It is fitting and proper that this Legislative Body pause
in its deliberations to acknowledge the significance of this event and
to recognize the profound impact of Doric Lodge No. 53 and Brother
Damien Jack in preserving the legacy of Prince Hall Freemasonry and
fostering education and leadership for future generations; now,
therefore, be it

RESOLVED, That this Legislative Body pause in its deliberations to
commend Doric Lodge No. 53 upon the occasion of hosting its Legacy of
Service Black History Event in observance of Black History Month, and to
honor Brother Damien Jack for his distinguished service and leadership;
and be it further

RESOLVED, That a copy of this Resolution, suitably engrossed, be
transmitted to Doric Lodge No. 53 and Brother Damien Jack.