House Resolution 49

(As Adopted by House)

A RESOLUTION HONORING AND CELEBRATING THE LEGACY OF MR. ALFRED "SKIP" ROBINSON, AND RECOGNIZING HIS EXCEPTIONAL LEADERSHIP AND MANY OUTSTANDING CIVIL RIGHTS ACCOMPLISHMENTS.

WHEREAS, Mr. Alfred Robinson, known to his friends and foes alike as "Skip," from Marshall County, Mississippi, was a heroic and extraordinary trailblazer who stood firm in advocating for equality and human and civil rights; and

WHEREAS, Mr. Robinson, a brick mason by trade, founded and served as president of The United League of North Mississippi, an African-American social movement established in 1978, to act against oppressive policies and activities throughout Mississippi; and

WHEREAS, through Mr. Robinson's brave and valiant leadership, African-American communities of Northern Mississippi effectively tempered police beatings, organized citywide boycotts, prevented African-American land and property loss, urged armed defense among its members and elected local African Americans into political office; and

WHEREAS, The United League, under Mr. Robinson's exceptional guidance, acted as a catalyst for change in North Mississippi, not only in Holly Springs but in surrounding communities of Byhalia, Ripley, Tupelo, Okolona and across the State of Mississippi; and

WHEREAS, through the strong and tenacious leadership of

Mr. Robinson, the United League and its members in northern Mississippi organized community meetings and created a coalition of resources in the struggle for human and civil rights, and he noted that the United League members "[went] house to house, street by street, through the black community" and encouraged community activist workshops; and

WHEREAS, a distinguished man of great character and superb boldness to advocate for what is right, Mr. Robinson's captivating passion for human equality and civil rights certainly inspired everyone who was blessed to encounter him, and his courageous leadership will continue to make a significant and meaningful impact in the Magnolia State for years to come; and

WHEREAS, it is with great pride that we pay tribute to the extensive contributions made by Mr. Alfred "Skip" Robinson to social justice, voter engagement and to paving the way for many African Americans who have served or now serve as elected officials, not only in Marshall County, but throughout the State of Mississippi:

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES OF THE STATE OF MISSISSIPPI, That we do hereby honor and celebrate the legacy of Mr. Alfred "Skip" Robinson, and recognize his exceptional leadership and many outstanding civil rights accomplishments.

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, That copies of this resolution be furnished to the family of Mr. Alfred "Skip" Robinson and to the members of the Capitol Press Corps.