Senate Resolution No. 1066

BY: Senator MONTGOMERY

COMMEMORATING the 20th Anniversary of Groundswell
on April 6, 2017

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
organizations and individuals that are devoted to the welfare of the
community and its citizenry; and

WHEREAS, Attendant to such concern, and in full accord with its
long-standing traditions, this Legislative Body is justly proud to
commemorate the 20th Anniversary of Groundswell, to be celebrated with
its Freedom is a Constant Struggle Event on Thursday, April 6, 2017, at
The Graduate Center, CUNY, New York, New York; and

WHEREAS, In 1996, a group of New York City artists, educators, and
activists founded Groundswell with the belief that collaborative
art-making combines the sanctity of personal expression with the
strength of community activism and produces unique and powerful
outcomes; and

WHEREAS, After 20 years, nearly 500 murals have been completed by
Groundswell, working with groups of underserved, marginalized, and
economically disadvantaged youth and professional artists, in
collaboration with more than 300 community-based organizations,
neighborhood groups, and government agencies throughout New York City;
and

WHEREAS, These compelling artworks demonstrate Groundswell's
enduring belief that art creates community and community creates change;
and

WHEREAS, Remaining true to its mission, Groundswell brings together
artists, youth, and community organizations through its Scaffold Up!
model, using art as a tool for social change, for a more just and
equitable world; and

WHEREAS, Groundswell's projects beautify neighborhoods, engage youth
in societal and personal transformation, and give expression to ideas
and perspectives that are underrepresented in the public dialogue; and

WHEREAS, With a vision of community change Groundswell encourages
dialogue and activism in participation with organizations that share its
values and aspirations; and

WHEREAS, Furthermore, Groundswell uses public art to link personal
expression with community activism, resulting in high quality work that
conveys compelling messages about the concerns of its participants and
partners; and

WHEREAS, Over its distinguished 20 year history, Groundswell has
demonstrated continuous service to the residents and communities which
it serves; and


WHEREAS, The success of Groundswell is in direct correlation to the
efforts of its staff and volunteers, whose involvement is, and always
has been, characterized by an impressive commitment, an unbridled
enthusiasm, and an uncompromising standard of excellence in all
endeavors on behalf of the organization and the community it serves; and

WHEREAS, This auspicious occasion presents an opportunity for this
Legislative Body to recognize and pay tribute to Groundswell; and

WHEREAS, It is the custom of this Legislative Body that when
organizations of such noble aims and accomplishments are brought to our
attention, they should be recognized and applauded by all the citizens
of this great Empire State; now, therefore, be it

RESOLVED, That this Legislative Body pause in its deliberations to
commemorate the 20th Anniversary of Groundswell on April 6, 2017; and be
it further

RESOLVED, That a copy of this Resolution, suitably engrossed, be
transmitted to Groundswell, Brooklyn, New York.