Senate Resolution No. 4846

BY: Senator MONTGOMERY

COMMEMORATING the 39th Anniversary of Black
Veterans for Social Justice, Inc. on July 21, 2018

WHEREAS, In the course of the evolving development of this Empire
State, where if the ingredients of shared concern and responsive
endeavor combine in the commitment to society, there have emerged among
the distinguished citizens of the State of New York certain
organizations which warrant special recognition; and

WHEREAS, It is the sense of this Legislative Body to commend those
illustrious organizations of the State of New York whose focus and
intent have made a substantial impact on the quality of life in their
communities; and

WHEREAS, Attendant to such concern, and in full accord with its
long-standing traditions, this Legislative Body is justly proud to
commemorate the 39th Anniversary of Black Veterans for Social Justice,
Inc., to be celebrated at its Gala On The Sea, Masquerade Ball Black Tie
Affair on Saturday, July 21, 2018, aboard the Cornucopia Majesty; and

WHEREAS, On April 18, 1979, a group of veterans from all branches of
the military representing enlistees from WWII through Vietnam, came
together to provide assistance to veterans with problems; and

WHEREAS, Some immediate problems faced were racism and racist
policies, little or poor medical and rehabilitative services,
unemployment, no re-entry preparation into society; and

WHEREAS, Many soldiers leaving the military were unaware of their
rights or the agencies willing to help them; some veterans experienced
hostile social attitudes and a high percentage suffered from exposure to
the lethal toxin Agent Orange, and continual readjustment obstacles; and

WHEREAS, Job Mashariki is a Founder and was the President/CEO of
Black Veterans for Social Justice, Inc. (BVSJ); he guided the
organization through 31 years of service to veterans and their families,
as well as the community at large; he stepped down from this position
and retired on July 31, 2010; and

WHEREAS, Based in Brooklyn, New York, BVSJ is the largest private
community-based agency serving New York City's veterans, their families
and the community; and

WHEREAS, BVSJ was developed as an outgrowth of the social justice
movement; the initial concern was assisting veterans of the Vietnam War
to reintegrate with their families, communities, and the greater
society; and

WHEREAS, Today, BVSJ annually serves an average of 15,000 clients,
maintains 400 units of housing and several commercial spaces, and
provides an array of social services; and

WHEREAS, BVSJ truly believes all persons could be productive,
positive contributors to society, no matter what sex, race, social
class, military labels or problems may beset them; all humans wish to do
the right thing, but do not often get the opportunity; and given a
boost, a helping hand, all people, particularly veterans, would respond
positively and productively; and

WHEREAS, This vital organization's roster of programs include its
Veteran Service Center, Supportive Services for Veteran Families (SSVF),
Homeless Veterans Reintegration Programs, Job To Build On/Consortium Of
Worker Education, Advocacy and Cultural Activities, Division of Housing
Management, Solutions to End Homelessness Program (STEHP), Food Pantry
Service, HIV and AIDS Prevention and Outreach, and Veterans Advisory
Groups (VAG); and

WHEREAS, BVSJ continues its frontline commitment to both active and
inactive military personnel, their families and the community at large;
and

WHEREAS, Each year, BVSJ assists thousands of veterans with a myriad
of difficulties that arise from transitioning from military to civilian
life by providing social services support with tender loving care and a
listening ear; and

WHEREAS, Over its distinguished 39 year history, Black Veterans for
Social Justice has demonstrated continuous service to the residents and
communities which it serves; and

WHEREAS, The success of Black Veterans for Social Justice is in
direct correlation to the efforts of President/CEO Wendy McClinton, its
Board of Directors and staff, 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 Black Veterans for
Social Justice; and

WHEREAS, In light of its commitment, dedication and successful
efforts, it is the custom of this Legislative Body to extend its highest
commendation to Black Veterans for Social Justice, Inc.; now, therefore,
be it

RESOLVED, That this Legislative Body pause in its deliberations to
commemorate the 39th Anniversary of Black Veterans for Social Justice,
Inc. on July 21, 2018; and be it further

RESOLVED, That a copy of this Resolution, suitably engrossed, be
transmitted to Wendy McClinton, President/CEO, Black Veterans for Social
Justice, Inc.