On the recordNovember 16, 2022
Today, I rise to honor the life and legacy of the legendary Reverend Dr. Calvin O. Butts III. As the pastor of the Abyssinian Baptist Church for 50 years, Reverend Butts understood his role as a leader went beyond the faith community. Witnessing the racial strife of the late 1960s, Reverend Butts became an ardent protector of Harlem, particularly the Black community, and often pushed for projects and policies that would increase access to dire needs like housing and education. Reverend Butts led projects that included raising and investing $1 billion in housing and commercial development in Harlem through the Abyssinian Development Corporation and creating the Thurgood Marshall Academy for Learning and Social Change. Reverend Butts preached a message of faith and education, and he motivated each of us through his teachings to be an active and exemplary member of Harlem, uplifting communities while giving back through service, engagement, and social reform. A dear friend and icon of Harlem, may he rest in peace, and may his legacy be cherished and never forgotten. Keep the faith. ____________________
