SENATE RESOLUTION NO. 912
In Memory
of
Annie Mae Charles
WHEREAS, The Senate of the State of Texas honors and
commemorates the life and legacy of Annie Mae Charles, who died
April 28, 2015, at the age of 102; and
WHEREAS, Annie Mae Charles was a leading Galveston citizen
who had a profound influence on her community and state and was
well known for her activism, her strength of character, and her
commitment to justice; and
WHEREAS, Annie Mae was born April 16, 1913; she was the
first African American woman to serve as a police officer in
Galveston, and the city's police department honored her at her
100th birthday celebration with a special plaque containing her
original police certification and photograph; that birthday
celebration, which was attended by over 1,500 people, also
included a taped message from President Barack Obama and a phone
call from her favorite politician, Al Sharpton; and
WHEREAS, She was an active participant in a wide range of
local and statewide organizations, including Zeta Amicae and the
Texas Usher Board Association; she served two terms as president
of the Galveston Branch of the National Association for the
Advancement of Colored People; and
WHEREAS, She was instrumental in organizing the first
Juneteenth celebration in Galveston in 1980, and Muhammad Ali
served as its first grand marshal; the city has since named the
festivities the Annie Mae Charles Juneteenth Celebration in her
honor; and
WHEREAS, Her activism and leadership in the local
political scene were central to the success of numerous
campaigns, and beginning in 1955, every newly elected mayor of
Galveston held an inaugural breakfast at her home; in recognition
of her status as a community leader, the Galveston Historical
Foundation has designated her home a historical landmark; in
addition, 39th and Broadway was renamed Annie Mae Charles
Boulevard; and
WHEREAS, A woman of courage and compassion, she gave
generously to others, and her wisdom, her indomitable spirit, and
her enthusiasm for living each day to the fullest will not be
forgotten; and
WHEREAS, She was devoted to her family, and she leaves
behind memories that will be cherished forever by those who were
privileged to share in her life; now, therefore, be it
RESOLVED, That the Senate of the State of Texas, 84th
Legislature, hereby extend sincere condolences to the bereaved
family of Annie Mae Charles; and, be it further
RESOLVED, That a copy of this Resolution be prepared for
her family as an expression of deepest sympathy from the Texas
Senate and that when the Senate adjourns this day, it do so in
memory of Annie Mae Charles.
Ellis
________________________________
President of the Senate
I hereby certify that the
above Resolution was adopted by
the Senate on May 19, 2015, by a
rising vote.
________________________________
Secretary of the Senate
________________________________
Member, Texas Senate