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