Senate Resolution No. 350

BY: Senator PARKER

HONORING Rev. Dr. W. Franklyn Richardson upon the
occasion of his recognition at The Positive
Community Media's 6th Annual Great American
Emancipation Day Awards Celebration on February 22,
2025

WHEREAS, It is the sense of this Legislative Body to recognize and
commend outstanding individuals whose faith, leadership, and service
have made a profound impact on their communities; and

WHEREAS, Attendant to such concern, and in full accord with its
long-standing traditions, this Legislative Body is justly proud to honor
Rev. Dr. W. Franklyn Richardson, Senior Pastor of Grace Baptist Church,
upon the occasion of his recognition at The Positive Community Media's
6th Annual Great American Emancipation Day Awards Celebration on
Saturday, February 22, 2025; and

WHEREAS, As a visionary faith leader, civil rights advocate, and
community builder, Rev. Dr. W. Franklyn Richardson has led Grace Baptist
Church in Mount Vernon, New York, for more than 50 years, expanding its
reach beyond the sanctuary to uplift the lives of countless individuals;
and

WHEREAS, A powerful voice for justice, Rev. Dr. W. Franklyn
Richardson serves as Chairman of the Conference of National Black
Churches and Chairman of the National Action Network, championing
equity, economic empowerment, and the moral responsibility of faith
communities; and

WHEREAS, Through his dynamic preaching and unwavering commitment to
education, housing, and social justice, Rev. Dr. W. Franklyn Richardson
has been a beacon of hope, inspiring generations to live with purpose
and compassion; and

WHEREAS, It is fitting and proper that this Legislative Body
recognize the extraordinary contributions of Rev. Dr. W. Franklyn
Richardson and commend him for his unwavering dedication to faith and
service; now, therefore, be it

RESOLVED, That this Legislative Body pause in its deliberations to
honor Rev. Dr. W. Franklyn Richardson, Senior Pastor of Grace Baptist
Church, upon the occasion of his recognition at The Positive Community
Media's 6th Annual Great American Emancipation Day Awards Celebration;
and be it further

RESOLVED, That a copy of this Resolution, suitably engrossed, be
transmitted to Rev. Dr. W. Franklyn Richardson.