SR979: SR979 Norwood, Dorothy; recognize

This is a ceremonial resolution from the Georgia Senate, not a law that changes rights or duties. It recognizes Dorothy Norwood, a gospel singer born in Atlanta who joined the group The Caravans in the early 1960s and later launched a solo career known for storytelling songs like "Johnny and Jesus" and "The Denied Mother." The resolution recounts highlights of her career, including a 1991 live album that reached No. 1 on the Billboard Gospel Chart and multiple Grammy nominations and Stellar Awards. The Senate formally commends her for her contributions to gospel music and to African American cultural expression, and directs the Secretary of the Senate to send her a copy of the resolution.

• Formally recognizes and commends Dorothy Norwood for her career as a gospel singer, songwriter, and storyteller.
• Recites biographical highlights, including her time with The Caravans and her solo career starting with the 1964 album Johnny and Jesus.
• Directs the Secretary of the Senate to prepare and send a copy of the resolution to Dorothy Norwood.
• Creates no new law, funding, or legal obligation, since it is a commendatory resolution rather than a bill.

The resolution directly names and honors Dorothy Norwood. It does not impose duties on the public, but it does direct the Secretary of the Senate to distribute a copy of the resolution to her.

This resolution has no legal effect on Georgians' daily lives; it is a symbolic honor. Its main real-world consequence is that Dorothy Norwood receives official recognition from the Georgia Senate for her contributions to gospel music.

• The whereas clauses describe Norwood's career, including her time with The Caravans and her solo debut album Johnny and Jesus in 1964.
• The whereas clauses note her 1991 live album reaching No. 1 on the Billboard Gospel Chart and her Grammy and Stellar Award recognitions.
• The resolved clause has the Senate recognize and commend her for her career and cultural contributions.
• The final clause directs the Secretary of the Senate to make a copy of the resolution available for distribution to her.

1. 2026-03-19Senate Read and Adopted (Senate)
2. 2026-03-18Senate Hopper (Senate)

• Sonya Halpern (D, SD-039)Primary sponsor
• RaShaun Kemp (D, SD-038)
• Kenya Wicks (D, SD-034)
• Gail Davenport (D, SD-017)
• Tonya Anderson (D, SD-043)

• gospel music
• Georgia Senate resolution
• Dorothy Norwood
• Black cultural heritage