SENATE RESOLUTION NO. 142
WHEREAS, The Senate of the State of Texas is pleased to
recognize Larry Thomas for his efforts in bringing to fruition
the creation and installation at the Texas State Cemetery of a
monument that commemorates this state's 19th-century African
American legislators; and
WHEREAS, Between the end of the Civil War and the beginning
of the 20th century, 52 African American Texans served in the
legislature and in two constitutional conventions; these men
addressed such critical issues as voting rights, education, and
prison reform before the enactment of the Jim Crow laws that saw
their rights once again curtailed; and
WHEREAS, While in office, these legislators tirelessly
advocated for the rights of all Texans, and they played a vital
role in the creation of Texas Agricultural and Mechanical College
and Prairie View Normal Institute; and
WHEREAS, Larry Thomas began research in 1998 that led to
the creation of the monument, and his determination and hard work
as project director played a critical part in its completion; the
cenotaph unveiled March 30, 2010, stands as a fitting memorial to
these dedicated statesmen, and Mr. Thomas is truly deserving of
recognition for his commitment to helping disseminate this
important aspect of our state's history; now, therefore, be it
RESOLVED, That the Senate of the State of Texas, 82nd
Legislature, 1st Called Session, hereby commend Larry Thomas on
his dedication to raising awareness of the seminal contributions
to our state made by its 19th-century African American
legislators and extend to him best wishes for continued success
in all his future endeavors; and, be it further
RESOLVED, That a copy of this Resolution be prepared for
him as an expression of esteem from the Texas Senate.
Watson
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President of the Senate
I hereby certify that the
above Resolution was adopted by
the Senate on June 28, 2011.
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Secretary of the Senate
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Member, Texas Senate