HR2099: HR2099 Hall, Reverend Gilbert; commend

26 LC 112 4234 House Resolution 2099 By: Representative Gilliard of the 162nd A RESOLUTION Commending Reverend Gilbert Hall; and for other purposes.1 WHEREAS, Reverend Gilbert Hall has earned distinction as one of Savannah's local Drum2 Majors for Justice through his service during the civil rights movement and his enduring3 presence in the Georgia coastal community; and4 WHEREAS, born in Statesboro, Georgia, Reverend Gilbert Hall graduated from Sophronia5 Tompkins High School in 1965 and subsequently served two years in the United States Army6 before returning to Georgia in 1967 during the height of the ci vil rights movement in the7 South; and8 WHEREAS, upon his return, he became actively involved in organi zed efforts to advance9 civil rights in Savannah, working alongside Reverend Hosea Williams and the Crusaders for10 Voting Rights to support community engagement and voter participation; and11 WHEREAS, he participated in organizing and protecting participa nts in civil rights12 demonstrations, attending community meetings at Connors Temple Church, where he had13 the opportunity to meet Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., and support ing night rallies held at14 locations such as the Flamingo Club and Mexico City; and15 H. R. 2099 - 1 - 26 LC 112 4234 WHEREAS, under the guidance of the late Reverend Hosea Williams, he helped form the16 Crusaders alongside Ben Clarke, Ms. Billy Boy, the late Frances Bright Johnson, Mrs.17 Mamie Williams, and numerous local Black and women-owned busine sses, all of whom18 contributed to organized efforts for justice in Savannah despit e significant opposition,19 including tear gas, police brutality, and arrests; and20 WHEREAS, in addition to his role in the community, he is the pr oud father of four21 remarkable sons and one outstanding daughter; and22 WHEREAS, the life and service of Reverend Gilbert Hall stand as testament to the impact23 of community leadership and civic involvement, and it is abundantly fitting and proper that24 he be appropriately honored during this special time.25 NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES that26 the members of this body commend Reverend Gilbert Hall for his decades of selfless and27 exemplary service on behalf of his fellow citizens as well as e xtend best wishes for future28 health and happiness.29 BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Clerk of the House of Representatives is authorized30 and directed to make an appropriate copy of this resolution ava ilable for distribution to31 Reverend Gilbert Hall.32 H. R. 2099 - 2 -