LEGISLATIVE RESOLUTION honoring Carmen Sophia Rivera upon the occasion
of her designation for special recognition by the Gathering of the Hous-
es of African Based Spiritual Belief Systems of New York City

WHEREAS, It is the sense of this Legislative Body to recognize that the
quality and character of life in the communities across New York State
are reflective of the concerned and dedicated efforts of those organiza-
tions and individuals who would devote themselves to the welfare of the
community and its citizenry; and
WHEREAS, This Legislative Body is justly proud to honor Carmen Sophia
Rivera upon the occasion of her designation for special recognition by
the Gathering of the Houses of African Based Spiritual Belief Systems of
New York City in conjunction with the Caribbean Cultural Center African
Diaspora Institute on Sunday, August 16, 2009; and
WHEREAS, This special event's title is "Ba M'buta: Ancestral
Connections from the Congo to the Americas"; and
WHEREAS, The Gathering of the Houses of African Based Spiritual Belief
Systems of New York City looks forward in honoring the elders of African
based spiritual belief systems who have managed to learn and pass on the
sacred wisdoms of African belief systems in the Americas; and
WHEREAS, Born in Puerto Rico, Carmen Sophia Rivera not only has 41
years of service as a priestess of Oya, but also has over 40 years of
experience as a nurse; she earned her degree in Nursing and worked in
various hospitals throughout New York City during her tenure; and
WHEREAS, A true asset to society, Carmen Sophia Rivera's distinguished
record merits the recognition and respectful tribute of this Legislative
Body; now, therefore, be it
RESOLVED, That this Legislative Body pause in its deliberations to
honor Carmen Sophia Rivera upon the occasion of her designation for
special recognition by the Gathering of the Houses of African Based
Spiritual Belief Systems of New York City; and be it further
RESOLVED, That a copy of this Resolution, suitably engrossed, be tran-
smitted to Carmen Sophia Rivera.