Georgia-2011-HR1699-Introduced

By: Representatives Beasley-Teague of the 65th, Kendrick of the 94th, Dickerson of the 95th, Stephenson of the 92nd, and Dawkins-Haigler of the 93rd

Recognizing and commending the Honorable Georgia Montgomery Davis Powers; and for other purposes.

WHEREAS, the Honorable Georgia Montgomery Davis Powers was born on October 19, 1923, in Springfield, Kentucky, a beloved daughter of Frances Walker and Ben Gore Montgomery; and

WHEREAS, she became the first African American and the first woman to be elected to the Kentucky State Senate; and

WHEREAS, Senator Powers was a Civil Rights Movement leader in Kentucky and was one of the key organizers of a state-wide rally in March of 1964 in support of a law to make public accommodations accessible to all, regardless of race; and

WHEREAS, she was the first African American woman to serve on the Jefferson County Democratic Executive Committee; and

WHEREAS, as senator, she chaired the Health and Welfare Committee from 1970 to 1976 and the Labor and Industry Committee from 1978 to 1988; and

WHEREAS, Senator Powers pushed for legislation on public accommodations, open housing, and other issues of concern to people of color, women, children, and the poor; and

WHEREAS, she fought for the Equal Rights Amendment resolution, the Displaced Homemaker's Law, and a law to increase the minimum wage in Kentucky; and

WHEREAS, The Georgia Powers oral histories and archival papers document the life and career of an important woman; and

WHEREAS, she was united in marriage to the late Norman F. Davis and from this union was blessed with one remarkable son, William "Billy" Davis; and

WHEREAS, she is united in love and marriage to James L. Powers; and

WHEREAS, this dedicated public servant has diligently and conscientiously devoted numerous hours of her time, talents, and energy to improving the lives of her community; and

WHEREAS, it is fitting that this body express its appreciation to Senator Powers for the great credit she reflects on her community.

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES that the members of this body commend the Honorable Georgia Montgomery Davis Powers for her outstanding public service, recognize her many contributions as a politician and civil rights activist, and extend to her sincere best wishes for the future.

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Clerk of the House of Representatives is authorized and directed to transmit an appropriate copy of this resolution to the Honorable Georgia Montgomery Davis Powers.