Senate Resolution No. 198
BY: Senator PARKER
MOURNING the death of Dr. Elizabeth Nunez and
honoring her remarkable life, literary
contributions, and dedication to education and the
promotion of Black writers
WHEREAS, Born on February 18, 1944, in Cocorite, Trinidad and
Tobago, Dr. Elizabeth Nunez was a distinguished novelist, professor,
and advocate for Black literature; her works have significantly enriched
American and Caribbean literary landscapes; and
WHEREAS, Dr. Elizabeth Nunez died in Brooklyn, New York, on Friday,
November 8, 2024, at the age of 80, leaving behind a profound legacy
which continues to influence and inspire writers, scholars, and readers
around the world; and
WHEREAS, At the age of 19, Elizabeth Nunez emigrated to the United
States, earning a Bachelor of Arts in English from Marian College in
Wisconsin, followed by a Master's degree and Ph.D. in Literature from
New York University, demonstrating an unwavering commitment to academic
excellence; and
WHEREAS, Dr. Elizabeth Nunez began her teaching career at Medgar
Evers College in Brooklyn in 1972, playing a pivotal role in developing
its writing curriculum, and later served as a Distinguished Professor of
English at Hunter College in New York City where she taught courses on
Caribbean Women Writers and Creative Writing, inspiring countless
students through her passion for literature and education; and
WHEREAS, As an accomplished author, Dr. Elizabeth Nunez penned
several acclaimed novels, including Prospero's Daughter, Bruised
Hibiscus, and Beyond the Limbo Silence, receiving numerous awards such
as the American Book Award and the Independent Publishers Book Award,
and earning recognition as a New York Times Editors' Choice; and
WHEREAS, Dr. Elizabeth Nunez co-founded the National Black Writers
Conference, securing funding from the National Endowment for the
Humanities, and co-edited anthologies that provided platforms for
Caribbean women writers, thereby amplifying marginalized voices and
fostering a greater appreciation for Black literature; and
WHEREAS, Dr. Elizabeth Nunez's memoir, "Discovering My Mother," was
featured in the 2019 anthology, New Daughters of Africa, further
contributing to the rich tapestry of diasporic narratives and
highlighting her personal journey and heritage; and
WHEREAS, All who were privileged to know Dr. Elizabeth Nunez will
miss her immensely; she has left an enduring legacy that will influence
future generations for decades to come; now, therefore, be it
RESOLVED, That this Legislative Body, on behalf of the State of New
York, extends its deepest sympathy to the family, friends, colleagues,
and students of Dr. Elizabeth Nunez and honors her exceptional
contributions to literature, education, and the empowerment of Black
writers, acknowledging the indelible impact she has made on our cultural
and academic communities; and be it further
RESOLVED, That a copy of this Resolution, suitably engrossed, be
transmitted to the family of Dr. Elizabeth Nunez as an expression of our
respect, admiration, and gratitude for her life and work.
