Assembly Resolution No. 763
BY: M. of A. Solages
LEGISLATIVE RESOLUTION memorializing Governor Kathy
Hochul to proclaim October 17, 2025, as Black Poetry
Day in the State of New York
WHEREAS, It is the sense of this Legislative Body, in keeping with
its time-honored traditions, to recognize and pay tribute to those who
seek to preserve and celebrate the African-American heritage of our
State and Nation; and
WHEREAS, Attendant to such concern, and in full accord with its
long-standing traditions, this Legislative Body is justly proud to
memorialize Governor Kathy Hochul to proclaim October 17, 2025, as Black
Poetry Day in the State of New York, in conjunction with the observance
of National Black Poetry Day; and
WHEREAS, October 17, 1711, was the birth date of the Black poet,
Jupiter Hammon, who was enslaved by the Lloyd Family of the Plantation
of Queens Village, New York, an area of Long Island now known as Caumset
State Park; and
WHEREAS, On December 25, 1760, Jupiter became the first
African-American to publish his own poem, "An Evening Thought: Salvation
by Christ, with Penitential Cries"; and
WHEREAS, Since the fall of 1970, through the efforts of Stanley
Ransom, former Director, Huntington Public Library, an unofficial Black
Poetry Day has been celebrated in parts of New York State; and
WHEREAS, This date has been gaining popularity as an occasion to
recognize the many Black poets in our state; and
WHEREAS, The noted author, Julius Lester, has suggested, "Poetry is
the major expression of Black experience," and the poet, Nikki Giovanni
has said, "Poetry is part of the strong oral tradition of Black people";
and
WHEREAS, Throughout the course of American history, Black poets and
writers have used their great talents to share the richness of the
African-American experience and to develop a uniquely American style of
literature enjoyed throughout the world; on October 17, 2025, we honor
Jupiter Hammon, a true pioneer of African-American poetry, along with
today's artists who continue his legacy; and
WHEREAS, Events which provide a means of preserving a part of our
rich American past and which contribute to the community in such noble
endeavors, are held in the highest regard by this Legislative Body; now,
therefore, be it
RESOLVED, That this Legislative Body pause in its deliberations to
memorialize Governor Kathy Hochul to proclaim October 17, 2025, as Black
Poetry Day in the State of New York; and be it further
RESOLVED, That a copy of this Resolution, suitably engrossed, be
transmitted to The Honorable Kathy Hochul, Governor of the State of New
York.
