J 344: honoring Doric Lodge No. 53 upon the occasion of hosting its Legacy of Service Black History Event, featuring Damien Jack as keynote speaker, on February 22, 2025

 Senate Resolution No. 344 BY: Senator PARKER COMMEMORATING Black History Month and honoring Doric Lodge No. 53 upon the occasion of hosting its Legacy of Service Black History Event, featuring Damien Jack as keynote speaker, on February 22, 2025 WHEREAS, It is the sense of this Legislative Body to recognize and honor those esteemed institutions and individuals whose commitment to service, education, and leadership has left a profound impact on their communities and beyond; and WHEREAS, Attendant to such concern, and in full accord with its long-standing traditions, this Legislative Body is justly proud to commemorate Black History Month and to honor Doric Lodge No. 53 upon the occasion of hosting its Legacy of Service Black History Event, featuring Brother Damien Jack as keynote speaker on Saturday, February 22, 2025; and WHEREAS, Black History Month serves as a time to celebrate and reflect upon the achievements, resilience, and enduring contributions of African Americans throughout history, recognizing their role in shaping the cultural, social, and political landscape of the United States; and WHEREAS, Since its founding in 1916, Doric Lodge No. 53 has remained a beacon of Masonic brotherhood, leadership, and community service, guided by the core principles of Brotherly Love, Relief, and Truth; and WHEREAS, Officially chartered in 1917 under the Most Worshipful Grand Lodge of the Most Ancient and Honorable Fraternity of Free and Accepted Masons of the State of New York, and later warranted under the Most Worshipful Prince Hall Grand Lodge of New York in 1921, Doric Lodge No. 53 has provided unwavering service to the community for over a century; and WHEREAS, Through the perseverance and dedication of its members, the Lodge realized its long-standing dream of securing a permanent home, purchasing its current location at 95 Westbury Blvd., Hempstead, NY, in 1975 under the leadership of Worshipful Master Emurray Clopton, a milestone that symbolizes the Lodge's enduring commitment to stability, unity, and community empowerment; and WHEREAS, The Legacy of Service Black History Event is a testament to the Lodge's dedication to honoring history, uplifting future generations, and fostering dialogue on the past, present, and future of African American leadership and excellence; and WHEREAS, This year's event is further distinguished by the presence of esteemed Brother Damien Jack as keynote speaker, a distinguished Mason and committed community leader whose extensive involvement in Masonic and fraternal organizations, including Paul Drayton Lodge No. 7 MWPHGL of NC, Excelsior Chapter No. 44, and Charlotte Consistory No. 35 AASR, exemplifies the highest ideals of service and dedication; and WHEREAS, In his professional life, Brother Damien Jack serves as a Psychiatric Technician for Atrium Behavioral Health, demonstrating his commitment to the mental and emotional well-being of individuals in need, embodying the Masonic principle of service to humanity; and WHEREAS, The Legacy of Service Black History Event provides a unique opportunity to celebrate Black excellence, leadership, and service, while recognizing the invaluable contributions of Doric Lodge No. 53 and Brother Damien Jack in advancing knowledge, empowerment, and unity within the community; and WHEREAS, It is fitting and proper that this Legislative Body pause in its deliberations to acknowledge the significance of this event and to recognize the profound impact of Doric Lodge No. 53 and Brother Damien Jack in preserving the legacy of Prince Hall Freemasonry and fostering education and leadership for future generations; now, therefore, be it RESOLVED, That this Legislative Body pause in its deliberations to commend Doric Lodge No. 53 upon the occasion of hosting its Legacy of Service Black History Event in observance of Black History Month, and to honor Brother Damien Jack for his distinguished service and leadership; and be it further RESOLVED, That a copy of this Resolution, suitably engrossed, be transmitted to Doric Lodge No. 53 and Brother Damien Jack.