Senate Resolution No. 1237

BY: Senator SAVINO

MEMORIALIZING Governor Andrew M. Cuomo to proclaim
March 2017, as Black Angels Month in the State of
New York, recognizing the courage and dedication of
the "Black Angels" who answered the call of nursing
duty

WHEREAS, It is incumbent upon the people of the State of New York to
recognize and acknowledge those within our midst who have made
significant contributions to the quality of life therein; and

WHEREAS, From time to time this Legislative Body takes note of
certain extraordinary individuals it wishes to recognize for their
valued contributions to the success and progress of society and publicly
acknowledge their endeavors which have enhanced the basic humanity among
us all; and

WHEREAS, Attendant to such concern, and in full accord with its
long-standing traditions, it is the sense of this Legislative Body to
memorialize Governor Andrew M. Cuomo to proclaim March 2017, as Black
Angels Month in the State of New York, recognizing the courage and
dedication of the "Black Angels" who answered the call of nursing duty;
and

WHEREAS, The Black Angels were so named due to their bold
willingness to provide desperately needed care to tuberculosis patients;
and

WHEREAS, The Black Angels and their families became active members
of the NAACP, neighborhood churches, and community groups; they became
founding members of the Lincoln Hospital Alumni Association, the Urban
League Guild and the Women's Civic and Political Union; and

WHEREAS, The Black Angels are comprised of approximately 300 nurses,
including Stiversa A. Bethel, Martha Lyles, Jane Price, Mamie Shumate,
Flossie Evans, Georgia Hayden, Annie Bostick, Kate Gillespie, Edna
Sutton Ballard, Americus Sutton, Virginia Allen, Viola Anderson, and
Annie B. Smith; and

WHEREAS, In 1984, the first health care museum in New York State was
named for Black Angel, Stiversa A. Bethel; and

WHEREAS, The Black Angels have played a significant role in the
development of new drugs called isoniazids, which aid in the arrest of
tuberculosis and in subsequent recovery; and

WHEREAS, It is the custom of this Legislative Body that those who
enhance the well-being and vitality of their community and have shown a
long and sustained commitment to excellence certainly have earned the
recognition and applause of all the citizens of this great Empire State;
now, therefore, be it

RESOLVED, That this Legislative Body pause in its deliberations to
memorialize Governor Andrew M. Cuomo to proclaim March 2017, as Black
Angels Month in the State of New York; and be it further

RESOLVED, That a copy of this Resolution, suitably engrossed, be
transmitted to The Honorable Andrew M. Cuomo, Governor of the State of
New York.