[Congressional Record Volume 169, Number 130 (Thursday, July 27, 2023)]
[Senate]
[Page S3770]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




      SENATE RESOLUTION 322--COMMEMORATING THE LIFE, LEGACY, AND 
                  ENTERTAINMENT CAREER OF TONY BENNETT

  Mr. SCHUMER (for himself, Mr. Cornyn, and Mr. Reed) submitted the 
following resolution; which was considered and agreed to:

                              S. Res. 322

       Whereas Tony Bennett, born Anthony Dominick Benedetto, on 
     August 3, 1926, was an iconic singer, performer, and artist 
     who made significant contributions to the world of music and 
     entertainment throughout an illustrious career;
       Whereas the unparalleled talent, exceptional vocal range, 
     and soulful renditions of the timeless classics of Tony 
     Bennett touched the hearts of millions of people around the 
     globe, leaving an indelible mark on the cultural landscape of 
     the United States;
       Whereas the dedication to craft, tireless pursuit of 
     excellence, and unwavering commitment to preserving the Great 
     American Songbook earned Tony Bennett numerous accolades, 
     including 20 Grammy Awards, a Kennedy Center honor, and the 
     distinction of being a National Endowment for the Arts Jazz 
     Master;
       Whereas philanthropic efforts by Tony Bennett, which 
     included support for arts education and humanitarian causes, 
     exemplified the compassionate spirit of Tony Bennett and a 
     commitment to making the world a better place;
       Whereas Tony Bennett was a native son of Astoria, Queens, a 
     community that was always close to his heart, where he helped 
     to found the Frank Sinatra High School of the Arts;
       Whereas the devotion of Tony Bennett to this country was 
     evident during service in the United States Army during World 
     War II in France and Germany;
       Whereas Tony Bennett was a lifelong champion of civil 
     rights, using music to develop a platform to speak out 
     vociferously against racism and discrimination;
       Whereas Tony Bennett marched with Harry Belafonte in the 
     historic Selma-to-Montgomery marches, standing alongside Dr. 
     Martin Luther King Jr. to demand equality and justice for 
     all; and
       Whereas the musical legacy of Tony Bennett not only 
     enriched the lives of fans but also served as an inspiration 
     to countless aspiring artists, encouraging these artists to 
     pursue dreams and strive for greatness: Now, therefore, be it
       Resolved, That the Senate--
       (1) uses August 3, 2023, to commemorate the birth of this 
     legendary artist, a day which marks not only the passing of 
     another year, but also an opportunity to celebrate an 
     extraordinary life and the impact Tony Bennett has had on the 
     United States and the world;
       (2) proclaims August 3, 2023, as ``Tony Bennett Day'' 
     across the country, urging all citizens to join together in 
     honoring this extraordinary man and the tremendous 
     contributions to the arts and society; and
       (3) calls upon educational institutions, community 
     organizations, and the people of the United States to 
     participate in events and activities that celebrate the 
     music, career, and philanthropy of Tony Bennett, fostering a 
     deeper appreciation for the arts and the role the arts play 
     in enriching the lives of the people of the United States.

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