New York J 1962: Honoring influential Black authors upon the occasion of their designation for special recognition at the 4th Annual Black Authors Festival on August 1, 2026

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J01962 Summary:

BILL NOJ01962 

&nbsp

SAME ASNo Same As

&nbsp

SPONSORPALUMBO

&nbsp

COSPNSR

&nbsp

MLTSPNSR

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&nbsp

Go to top J01962 Actions:

BILL NOJ01962 

&nbsp

04/24/2026REFERRED TO FINANCE

04/28/2026REPORTED TO CALENDAR FOR CONSIDERATION

04/28/2026ADOPTED

Go to topJ01962 Committee&nbspVotes:

Go to topJ01962 Floor&nbspVotes:

There are no Assembly votes for this bill in this legislative session.

Go to topJ01962 Text:

Senate Resolution No. 1962

BY: Senator PALUMBO

 HONORING influential Black authors upon the
 occasion of their designation for special
 recognition at the 4th Annual Black Authors Festival
 on August 1, 2026

 WHEREAS, It is the custom of the Legislative Body to pay tribute to
those illustrious thought leaders of their community, who strive to
support literacy and the creation of powerful stories to uplift the
Black community; and

 WHEREAS, Attendant to such concern, and in full accord with its
long-standing traditions, this Legislative Body is justly proud to honor
influential Black authors upon the occasion of their designation for
special recognition at the 4th Annual Black Authors Festival on
Saturday, August 1, 2026, at the Black Authors Festival in Sag Harbor,
New York; and

 WHEREAS, Celebrating the power of words and Black authors, the Black
Authors Festival aims to support literacy and honor influential Black
authors and thought leaders in the community; it was founded by two
professional Black women who curated the renowned event to acquaint and
re-acquaint Black people with the notion of penning and publishing their
own stories; and

 WHEREAS, The honorees being featured at the Black Authors Festival
are: Darlene Williams, a cultural leader and founder of the Black
Authors Festival who advances literacy, intellectual freedom, and
meaningful dialogue by elevating and connecting Black authors, readers,
and thought leaders; Maurice L. Williams, LMSW, MA, a social worker and
nonprofit leader who, as Vice President of the Black Authors Festival
and Executive Director of A Father's Love, advances literacy,
mentorship, and community empowerment through leadership, education, and
cultural engagement; Dr. Mathew Knowles, a renowned music executive and
founder of Music World Entertainment who shaped the global music
industry by developing iconic artists like Destiny's Child and Beyonce
through visionary leadership and strategic innovation; Rickey Smiley, a
nationally recognized comedian and media personality who, through his
radio show, television work, and philanthropy, uses humor and
storytelling to entertain audiences while promoting community
engagement, youth development, and social awareness; Tiffany Cross, an
award-winning journalist and political commentator who uses her media
platforms and writing to elevate conversations on politics, race, and
social justice while advocating for informed civic engagement and the
empowerment of underrepresented voices; Jamie Arty, an author and
preservationist who blends storytelling, historical research, and
restoration to inspire appreciation for heritage, identity, and the
enduring power of home; Michelle Miller, an award-winning CBS News
correspondent and co-host who delivers impactful journalism and
storytelling that informs audiences while highlighting diverse voices,
human experiences, and issues of national importance; A'Lelia Bundles,
an award-winning journalist, author, and cultural historian who
preserves and shares African American history by documenting the legacy
of Madam C. J. Walker and highlighting stories of entrepreneurship,

empowerment, and cultural achievement; Reverend Dr. A. R. Bernard, Sr.,
a pastor, author, and faith leader who has shaped spiritual, civic, and
cultural life for over four decades by guiding congregants, advising
leaders, and promoting faith-driven community empowerment; Jamaal
Bernard, Sr., Senior Pastor of the Christian Cultural Center, guiding
the congregation with faith-driven leadership that honors its legacy
while advancing spiritual growth, community outreach, and empowerment
for the next generation; Tyrus Hinton, an author, speaker, coach, and
nonprofit leader who empowers individuals and families through
resilience, faith, and personal transformation while advancing community
support, mentorship, and confidence-building initiatives; Ruth