SR 305: Prince Hall Freemasonry; recognize

Senate Resolution 305

By: Senators Strickland of the 42nd, Mallow of the 2nd, Williams of the 25th and Hatchett of the 50th

A RESOLUTION

Recognizing and commending Prince Hall Freemasonry and the Most Worshipful Prince Hall Grand Lodge of Georgia; and for other purposes.

WHEREAS, Prince Hall Freemasonry, founded in 1784, in Boston, Massachusetts, has a long and distinguished history of promoting leadership, education, community service, and social justice, serving as a pillar of strength and upliftment within African American communities; and

WHEREAS, the Most Worshipful Prince Hall Grand Lodge of Georgia was formed on June 24, 1870, in the City of Savannah, Georgia, under the leadership of Grand Master James R. Simms, along with three lodges, Eureka No. 1, Hilton No. 2, and Banneker No. 3; and

WHEREAS, the Most Worshipful Prince Hall Grand Lodge of Georgia, together with its 181 constituent lodges and over 5,000 members statewide, has awarded more than $100,000 in scholarships to deserving students over the past five years; and

WHEREAS, in 2024, the Most Worshipful Prince Hall Grand Lodge of Georgia collectively dedicated over 20,000 hours to community service by collaborating with established organizations and causes, feeding and clothing the less fortunate, and providing vital youth mentoring services; and

WHEREAS, the Most Worshipful Prince Hall Grand Lodge of Georgia has upheld the Masonic principles of brotherly love, relief, and truth, contributing to the spiritual, moral, and civic development of its members and the greater community; and

WHEREAS, for generations, Prince Hall Masons have demonstrated an unwavering commitment to philanthropy, youth mentorship, scholarship programs, and public service, including partnerships with local organizations to address issues of health, education, and economic empowerment; and

WHEREAS, the contributions of Prince Hall Masons to the social fabric of Georgia reflect the enduring legacy of Prince Hall himself, a visionary leader who sought equality, justice, and unity in the face of adversity; and

WHEREAS, it is fitting to recognize and honor the invaluable impact of the Most Worshipful Prince Hall Grand Lodge of Georgia and its affiliated bodies, including the Order of the Eastern Star and Masonic Youth Organizations, in shaping a brighter future for all citizens; and

WHEREAS, the Prince Hall Order of the Eastern Star, a distinguished and vital organization made up of our Sisters, has long provided a foundation of faith, service, and philanthropy, working to support charitable causes, promote education, and enrich the lives of families throughout our state; and

WHEREAS, the youth organization sponsored by the Georgia Prince Hall Masons, the Knights of Pythagoras, provides young men with invaluable leadership, community service, and character-building opportunities; and

WHEREAS, the Knights of Pythagoras has enriched the lives of many young men in Georgia, instilling in them the principles of integrity, honor, and community service.

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE SENATE that the members of this body recognize and commend Prince Hall Freemasonry and the Most Worshipful Prince Hall Grand Lodge of Georgia as well as extend best wishes for continued growth and success. BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Secretary of the Senate is authorized and directed to make an appropriate copy of this resolution available for distribution to the Most Worshipful Prince Hall Grand Lodge of Georgia.