Senate Resolution No. 351 BY: Senator PARKER HONORING Dr. Lonnie G. Bunch III, Secretary of the Smithsonian Institution, upon the occasion of his designation for special recognition at The Positive Community Media's 6th Annual Great American Emancipation Day Awards Celebration on February 22, 2025 WHEREAS, It is the sense of this Legislative Body to recognize and pay tribute to individuals of remarkable achievement whose contributions have enriched the cultural and historical understanding of our nation; and WHEREAS, Attendant to such concern, and in full accord with its long-standing traditions, this Legislative Body is justly proud to honor Dr. Lonnie G. Bunch III, Secretary of the Smithsonian Institution, upon the occasion of his designation for special recognition at The Positive Community Media's 6th Annual Great American Emancipation Day Awards Celebration on Saturday, February 22, 2025; and WHEREAS, As the 14th Secretary of the Smithsonian Institution, Dr. Lonnie G. Bunch is the first African American to lead the world's largest museum, education, and research complex, overseeing 19 museums, 21 libraries, the National Zoo, and numerous research centers; and WHEREAS, A distinguished historian, author, and educator, Dr. Lonnie G. Bunch was the founding director of the Smithsonian National Museum of African American History and Culture, a landmark institution that preserves and shares the rich and complex history of African Americans and their contributions to the nation; and WHEREAS, His leadership has been instrumental in elevating historical discourse, advancing cultural preservation, and ensuring accessibility to the invaluable artifacts and stories that define our collective heritage; and WHEREAS, Dr. Lonnie G. Bunch's scholarship and dedication to historical truth have empowered generations with knowledge, fostering a deeper understanding of the past to inspire a more just and inclusive future; and WHEREAS, It is fitting and proper that this Legislative Body recognize the extraordinary achievements of Dr. Lonnie G. Bunch III, and commend him for his unwavering dedication to the preservation and promotion of American history; now, therefore, be it RESOLVED, That this Legislative Body pause in its deliberations to honor Dr. Lonnie G. Bunch III upon the occasion of his designation for special recognition at The Positive Community Media's 6th Annual Great American Emancipation Day Awards Celebration; and be it further RESOLVED, That a copy of this Resolution, suitably engrossed, be transmitted to Dr. Lonnie G. Bunch III, Secretary of the Smithsonian Institution.