Resolution Authorizing the Naming of a New Residence Hall "Harriet Tubman Hall"

WHEREAS, in response to increasing demand for on-campus housing the University has constructed a state-of-the-art residence hall; and

WHEREAS, the University mission is grounded in the pursuit of knowledge and access to academic excellence within a diverse global community; and

WHEREAS, the University is a community in which all are welcome and where our commitment to diversity is essential to providing an environment that not only promotes academic and personal achievement, but also inspires creativity, innovation, compassion and tolerance; and

WHEREAS, the University seeks to reflect on its diverse community and to honor those who have had an indelible impact on the civil liberties we enjoy today; and

WHEREAS, Harriet Tubman was an abolitionist who was born into slavery and escaped to the North to gain her freedom and become a key figure in the operation of the Underground Railroad, the network of people who helped slaves escape to their freedom in the North; and

WHEREAS, Tubman led thirteen rescue missions to liberate hundreds of slaves, provided invaluable services to the Union government as a scout and provided critical intelligence to Union troops.

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE STONY BROOK LOCAL COUNCIL THAT:

In recognition of Harriet Tubman's role as a trailblazer and humanitarian, her service to her community and the widespread impact of her work to free slaves and promote women's suffrage along with the honor bestowed upon her by becoming the first woman in the United States to be featured on a currency bill, the Stony Brook Local Council authorizes the naming of Phase II of the new residence halls, located between Mendelsohn Quad and Toll Drive, as "Harriet Tubman Hall" and furthermore,

The Stony Brook Local Council authorizes chair, Kevin S. Law, to transmit this resolution to the Board of Trustees of the State University of New York.