s Black
History Month drew to a close, it seemed so right that the final February
City Council meeting opened with the awarding of a proclamation to the
world-renowned photographer, writer, filmmaker and composer Gordon Parks.
In
his many award-winning endeavors, Parks has truly earned his reputation
as a renaissance man. He was the first African American photographer to
work for Life and Vogue magazines. He has published 12
books, including three autobiographies, several novels and poetry.
Parks was also the first African American to write, direct and
produce a film for a major American motion picture company. His film,
The Learning Tree (1969), was among the 25 films placed on the
National Film Registry of the Library of Congress in 1989. He also
launched a new era in Black filmmaking when he directed the original
Shaft (1971).
Parks has also written and published music, from blues to orchestral
pieces and film scores, plus a ballet, Martin, about Dr. Martin
Luther King Jr.
In introducing Gordon Parks, Council Member Yvette Clarke said that
it was truly a privilege to bring forth this man who, throughout his
long life, has used his multiple creative talents to tell the story of
the African American experience.
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City Clerk Victor Robles then read the proclamation, which states in
part:
"Today we honor Gordon Parks for the extraordinary artistic legacy
which he’s bestowed upon us, one which speaks of the origins of our
community, who we are and where we’re heading. Through his photography
and other artistic achievements, he has shed light on the history and
heritage of African Americans and has added to our present day
expressions of social and cultural significance."
The
proclamation concludes, "Now therefore be it known that the Council of
the City of New York honors Gordon Parks for his extraordinary
contribution to our nation."
When asked if he wished to say a few words, Parks commented that he
came from a little spot in Kansas where the teacher told him, "Don’t
waste your family’s money trying to go to college because you’re a Black
student and you’re going to wind up as a porter." "I wish Miss
McClintock were here today to witness this," he said. "I’m awfully happy
to be here and very proud - and I’d like to come back again as a member
of this place!"
Speaker Gifford Miller joked that he was term limited, so there would
be an open seat on the East Side. Everybody laughed, but, given Parks’
seemingly endless abilities, I’d say to anyone thinking of running for
the seat, you might do well to keep an eye on Gordon Parks!
