Resolution Authorizing the Naming of a New Residence Hall "Cesar Chavez 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, Cesar Chavez was a Mexican-American labor organizer and civil rights leader who co-founded the United Farm Workers Union in 1962 and helped organize thousands of farm workers in California's Central Valley; and

WHEREAS, Cesar Chavez is one of the most recognized Latino activists in the United States, having received the Jefferson Award for Greatest Public Service Benefiting the Disadvantaged, the Pacem in Terris Award from the Catholic Church and the Presidential Medal of Freedom.

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

In recognition of Cesar Chavez' service to his community and the widespread impact of his work to provide a voice to those most vulnerable by advocating for fair wages, humane treatment and safe working conditions, the Stony Brook Local Council authorizes the naming of Phase I of the new residence halls, located between Mendelsohn Quad and Toll Drive, as "Cesar Chavez 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.