Assembly Resolution No. 40

BY: M. of A. Lawler

COMMENDING Dr. Frances Pratt upon the occasion of
her designation for special recognition after 40
years of dedicated service as President of the Nyack
NAACP

WHEREAS, It is the custom of this Legislative Body to recognize and
honor those distinguished citizens of this great Empire State who have
devoted themselves to faithfully serving the best interests of their
community and the needs of its residents; and

WHEREAS, Attendant to such concern, and in full accord with its
long- standing traditions, this Legislative Body is justly proud to
commend Dr. Frances Pratt upon the occasion of her designation for
special recognition after 40 years of dedicated service as President of
the Nyack NAACP; she officially concluded her four decades on Wednesday,
December 16, 2020; and

WHEREAS, The oldest and largest civil rights organization, the NAACP
was founded in 1909, in New York City by a group of black and white
citizens committed to improving the quality of life for
African-Americans; and

WHEREAS, Dr. Frances Pratt was elected to her first term as
President of the Nyack NAACP in 1980, and took office in January of
1981; and

WHEREAS, As President, Dr. Frances Pratt organized the annual
interfaith service celebrating the life of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr, a
celebration that continues to unite the community around Dr. King's
message of unity and equity; and

WHEREAS, Dr. Frances Pratt's contributions have been significant;
her work against racism and inequality have led to numerous awards and
recognition in New York State, including induction into the Rockland
Civil Rights Hall of Fame and receiving the Harriet Tubman Award; and

WHEREAS, Dr. Frances Pratt had a unique style of leadership; she is
a known trailblazer and icon who has shaped the path of the Nyack Branch
NAACP; she has inspired the next generation of nurses, advocates and
leaders throughout Rockland; and

WHEREAS, Rare indeed is the occurrence of such a compassionate
blending of strength, leadership, intellect, and commitment as that
demonstrated by Dr. Frances Pratt over a lifetime of sacrifice and
dedication to others; and

WHEREAS, It is the sense 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
commend Dr. Frances Pratt upon the occasion of her designation for
special recognition after 40 years of dedicated service as President of
the Nyack NAACP, and to wish her well in all her future endeavors; and
be it further

RESOLVED, That a copy of this Resolution, suitably engrossed, be
transmitted to Dr. Frances Pratt.