The following resolution was passed by the Orange County Board of Commissioners at its meeting last week.
WHEREAS Rebecca Clark worked tirelessly to promote and provide social justice in the Orange County Community;
WHEREAS Mrs. Clark ensured the democratic process by registering countless individuals to vote, helping the house-bound and disabled to cast ballots and oversaw the voter rolls at the Lincoln Precinct for several decades;
WHEREAS Mrs. Clark was a pioneer who confronted racist hiring practices and broke down racial barriers in the workplace; and advocated for workers’ rights for working class people throughout our community and particularly on the UNC campus;
WHEREAS Mrs. Clark instilled in the young people around her a passion for social justice, strong faith and community action;
WHEREAS Mrs. Clark was integral in uniting the Chapel Hill community behind Howard Lee and getting out the vote to elect him the first African-American mayor of a predominantly white Southern town;
WHEREAS Mrs. Clark utilized the political system and community action to truly improve the lives of the disenfranchised, the discriminated against and the downtrodden;
WHEREAS Mrs. Clark served as a beacon and touchstone for so many who today provide valued community and public service as elected officials, advocates and activists working for social justice;
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the Orange County Board of Commissioners hereby recognize Rebecca Clark and express great appreciation to Mrs. Clark for contributions she made during her long life.