HR 841: Black, Charles; outstanding contributions to civil rights, education and community service; commend

House Resolution 841

By: Representatives Bell of the 75th, Holly of the 116th, Berry of the 56th, McQueen of the 61st, and Willis of the 55th

A RESOLUTION

Recognizing and commending Charles Black for his outstanding contributions to civil rights, education, and community service; and for other purposes.

WHEREAS, Charles Black, a native of Miami, Florida, has dedicated his life to the pursuit of justice, equality, and civic engagement, leaving an indelible mark on the State of Georgia and the nation; and

WHEREAS, he is an esteemed alumnus of Morehouse College, where he distinguished himself as a scholar and leader, serving as a member of the varsity debate team, editor of the college newspaper, president of the senior class, and chairman of The 1960's Atlanta Student Movement; and

WHEREAS, Charles Black played a pivotal role in the Civil Rights Movement, being a signer and co-author of the Appeal for Human Rights, a foundational document advocating for the desegregation of public spaces and the advancement of human rights; and

WHEREAS, he was among only eight students privileged to study under Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., further cementing his commitment to nonviolent activism and the fight for racial justice; and

WHEREAS, Charles Black is a 1971 alumnus of Leadership Atlanta and has served as chairman of the Boards of Illien Adoptions International, Freedom University, and The Foundation for Our Children, demonstrating his unwavering commitment to social justice and education; and

WHEREAS, he has held numerous leadership roles, including past chairman of the Board of Hammonds House Museum, past editor of The Atlanta Inquirer Newspaper Inc., and past CEO of the national consulting firm Frontiers Unlimited Inc., which he co-founded alongside civil rights icons John Lewis, Julian Bond, and Lonnie King Jr.; and

WHEREAS, his influence extends into the political and civic arenas, having served as an advisor and manager of numerous campaigns, mentoring younger generations of community and political activists on matters of civil and human rights; and

WHEREAS, beyond his activism, Charles Black is a veteran actor of stage, screen, and television, starring in a series of faith-based films with training guides used in over 3,000 churches nationwide, further impacting communities through the arts; and

WHEREAS, in recognition of his lifelong dedication to community service and civil rights, Charles Black was awarded the Presidential Medal of Honor by President Barack Obama, a testament to his enduring impact on the nation; and

WHEREAS, it is abundantly fitting and proper that this body recognize the exceptional achievements of Charles Black and extend gratitude for his contributions to the State of Georgia and the broader global community.

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES that the members of this body recognize and commend Charles Black for his outstanding contributions to civil rights, education, and community service as well as express their sincere appreciation for his lasting influence.

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Clerk of the House of Representatives is authorized and directed to make an appropriate copy of this resolution available for distribution to Charles Black.