Senate Resolution No. 941

BY: Senator PARKER

COMMENDING the Association for the Study of Classical African Civilizations upon the occasion of hosting its 36th Annual Ancient Kemetic (Egyptian) Studies Conference from April 18-21, 2019

WHEREAS, It is the custom of this Legislative Body to honor those enduring organizations which devote their purposeful energies to improving the quality and dignity of life of those they serve, to preserving their heritage, and to fostering cultural pride; and

WHEREAS, Attendant to such concern, and in full accord with its long-standing traditions, this Legislative Body is justly proud to commend the Association for the Study of Classical African Civilizations upon the occasion of hosting its 36th Annual Ancient Kemetic (Egyptian) Studies Conference from April 18-21, 2019, in Academic Building No. 1 at Medgar Evers College in Brooklyn, New York; and

WHEREAS, This year's theme "African Rhythms for an African Renaissance: Transcending Our Time of Trouble to Build for Eternity" celebrates the association's past 35 years of existence, and to not only renew its moral obligation and responsibility to counter the political, cultural, and psychological oppression of African people, but also continue to promote, preserve, and disseminate African cultural and intellectual enlightenment which sustains its humanity and is the foundation of its liberation; and

WHEREAS, The 2019 theme is inspired by long-time Brooklyn resident and great jazz pianist Randy Weston (maa kheru), a new Ancestor whose music and life work was deeply Pan-African; he stands for African cultural renaissance in the way that , , Yosef ben Jochannan, Jacob Carruthers stand for their history, for their unity and Harriet Tubman for their liberation; and

WHEREAS, The Association for the Study of Classical African Civilizations (ASCAC) provides a body of knowledge which continuously contributes to the rescue, reconstruction, and restoration of African history and culture; and

WHEREAS, Since its inception, this vital association has strived to promote the study of African civilizations for the development of an African world view by building study groups and strengthening existing institutions; and

WHEREAS, The success of the ASCAC is in direct correlation to the efforts of its Executive Committee, led by President Dr. Mario Beatty, Council of Elders, Regional Presidents, Commission Chairs and its members, 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 institution and the community it serves; and

WHEREAS, It is the sense 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 commend the Association for the Study of Classical African Civilizations upon the occasion of hosting its 36th Annual Ancient Kemetic (Egyptian) Studies Conference from April 18-21, 2019; and be it further

RESOLVED, That a copy of this Resolution, suitably engrossed, be transmitted to Dr. Mario Beatty, President, Executive Committee, the Association for the Study of Classical African Civilizations.