Senate Resolution No. 351

BY: Senator PARKER

HONORING Dr. Lonnie G. Bunch III, Secretary of the
Smithsonian Institution, upon the occasion of his
designation for special 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
pay tribute to individuals of remarkable achievement whose contributions
have enriched the cultural and historical understanding of our nation;
and

WHEREAS, Attendant to such concern, and in full accord with its
long-standing traditions, this Legislative Body is justly proud to honor
Dr. Lonnie G. Bunch III, Secretary of the Smithsonian Institution, upon
the occasion of his designation for special recognition at The Positive
Community Media's 6th Annual Great American Emancipation Day Awards
Celebration on Saturday, February 22, 2025; and

WHEREAS, As the 14th Secretary of the Smithsonian Institution, Dr.
Lonnie G. Bunch is the first African American to lead the world's
largest museum, education, and research complex, overseeing 19 museums,
21 libraries, the National Zoo, and numerous research centers; and

WHEREAS, A distinguished historian, author, and educator, Dr. Lonnie
G. Bunch was the founding director of the Smithsonian National Museum
of African American History and Culture, a landmark institution that
preserves and shares the rich and complex history of African Americans
and their contributions to the nation; and

WHEREAS, His leadership has been instrumental in elevating
historical discourse, advancing cultural preservation, and ensuring
accessibility to the invaluable artifacts and stories that define our
collective heritage; and

WHEREAS, Dr. Lonnie G. Bunch's scholarship and dedication to
historical truth have empowered generations with knowledge, fostering a
deeper understanding of the past to inspire a more just and inclusive
future; and

WHEREAS, It is fitting and proper that this Legislative Body
recognize the extraordinary achievements of Dr. Lonnie G. Bunch III, and
commend him for his unwavering dedication to the preservation and
promotion of American history; now, therefore, be it

RESOLVED, That this Legislative Body pause in its deliberations to
honor Dr. Lonnie G. Bunch III upon the occasion of his designation for
special 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 Dr. Lonnie G. Bunch III, Secretary of the Smithsonian
Institution.