SENATE RESOLUTION NO. 6 WHEREAS, The Senate of the State of Texas is pleased to recognize entertainer and humanitarian Harry Belafonte, the featured guest speaker at the 14th Annual Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., Celebration in Dallas; and WHEREAS, Harry Belafonte has received international acclaim for his talent as a singer, actor, writer, and director and for his dedication and commitment to helping people around the world in the struggle for equality; and WHEREAS, Mr. Belafonte met Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., in the early 1950s and maintained an enduring friendship with the renowned civil rights leader until his death; with Dr. King's sanction, he spread the civil rights struggle for freedom throughout the world, using his global popularity to further the worthy cause; and WHEREAS, Born in Harlem, Harry Belafonte grew up in Jamaica, his mother's native land; after serving in the United States Navy during World War II, he returned to New York and began a long and productive career in the performing arts; and WHEREAS, A gifted entertainer, Mr. Belafonte gained immense popularity for both his musical and theatrical talents and became one of the most respected African American actors of all time in movies and television; and WHEREAS, Over the years, Harry Belafonte gave generously to further the cause of civil rights, and the positive impact he has made on the lives of children around the world as a UNICEF Goodwill Ambassador is unparalleled; and WHEREAS, As Texans across the state join the nation in celebrating the birth of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., it is indeed appropriate that the Texas Senate recognize one who continues the work of Dr. King and whose contributions make the world a better place for all people; now, therefore, be it RESOLVED, That the Senate of the State of Texas, 79th Legislature, hereby commend Harry Belafonte for his worthy contributions to the betterment of mankind and for the many years he has provided entertainment to the world; and, be it further RESOLVED, That a copy of this Resolution be prepared for him as an expression of high regard from the Texas Senate. West ________________________________ President of the Senate I hereby certify that the above Resolution was adopted by the Senate on January 12, 2005. ________________________________ Secretary of the Senate ________________________________ Member, Texas Senate