Honor Groundswell’s 20th Anniversary

Senate Resolution No. 1066 BY: Senator MONTGOMERY COMMEMORATING the 20th Anniversary of Groundswell on April 6, 2017 WHEREAS, It is the sense of this Legislative Body to recognize that the quality and character of life in the communities across New York State are reflective of the concerned and dedicated efforts of those organizations and individuals that are devoted to the welfare of the community and its citizenry; and WHEREAS, Attendant to such concern, and in full accord with its long-standing traditions, this Legislative Body is justly proud to commemorate the 20th Anniversary of Groundswell, to be celebrated with its Freedom is a Constant Struggle Event on Thursday, April 6, 2017, at The Graduate Center, CUNY, New York, New York; and WHEREAS, In 1996, a group of New York City artists, educators, and activists founded Groundswell with the belief that collaborative art-making combines the sanctity of personal expression with the strength of community activism and produces unique and powerful outcomes; and WHEREAS, After 20 years, nearly 500 murals have been completed by Groundswell, working with groups of underserved, marginalized, and economically disadvantaged youth and professional artists, in collaboration with more than 300 community-based organizations, neighborhood groups, and government agencies throughout New York City; and WHEREAS, These compelling artworks demonstrate Groundswell's enduring belief that art creates community and community creates change; and WHEREAS, Remaining true to its mission, Groundswell brings together artists, youth, and community organizations through its Scaffold Up! model, using art as a tool for social change, for a more just and equitable world; and WHEREAS, Groundswell's projects beautify neighborhoods, engage youth in societal and personal transformation, and give expression to ideas and perspectives that are underrepresented in the public dialogue; and WHEREAS, With a vision of community change Groundswell encourages dialogue and activism in participation with organizations that share its values and aspirations; and WHEREAS, Furthermore, Groundswell uses public art to link personal expression with community activism, resulting in high quality work that conveys compelling messages about the concerns of its participants and partners; and WHEREAS, Over its distinguished 20 year history, Groundswell has demonstrated continuous service to the residents and communities which it serves; and WHEREAS, The success of Groundswell is in direct correlation to the efforts of its staff and volunteers, whose involvement is, and always has been, characterized by an impressive commitment, an unbridled enthusiasm, and an uncompromising standard of excellence in all endeavors on behalf of the organization and the community it serves; and WHEREAS, This auspicious occasion presents an opportunity for this Legislative Body to recognize and pay tribute to Groundswell; and WHEREAS, It is the custom of this Legislative Body that when organizations of such noble aims and accomplishments are brought to our attention, they should be recognized and applauded by all the citizens of this great Empire State; now, therefore, be it RESOLVED, That this Legislative Body pause in its deliberations to commemorate the 20th Anniversary of Groundswell on April 6, 2017; and be it further RESOLVED, That a copy of this Resolution, suitably engrossed, be transmitted to Groundswell, Brooklyn, New York.