title
Proclamation commending Mr. Nate Smith for his unparalleled commitment to his community, Allegheny County, and nation.
body
WHEREAS, born and raised in the Hill District, Mr. Nate Smith has gained national prominence as one of the most influential men in the African-American community for leading the movement to integrate the skilled building trades unions; and
WHEREAS, in the 1970's, Nate started Operation Dig, a training program in Pittsburgh to assist African-Americans in becoming union members and established a voluntary partnership among community, management, unions, and government that has been successfully replicated in other cities throughout the United States; and
WHEREAS, Nate is a board member of Renaissance III 200 Inc., a pre-apprentice program for women and minorities in the building trades profession, which also offers tutoring and mentoring; and
WHEREAS, Nate serves the community in various capacities including as President/CEO of Surtreat Corporation; Consultant for Western Pennsylvania Hospital; Executive Board Member of Operation PUSH/Rainbow Coalition, as well as a speaker and advocate for the Pittsburgh Cancer Institute; and
WHEREAS, Nate's accomplishments have been described and recognized in numerous publications including: the Wall Street Journal, TALK Magazine, Renaissance Magazine, Pittsburgh Press, Pittsburgh Post-Gazette, Jet Magazine, Ebony, The Legacy of Operation Dig, the New York Times and the Washington Post; and
WHEREAS, Nate has received numerous awards and recognitions including being named “Action Board Member of the Year” by the Health Education Center; “Services to Fellow Man” by Community Action Pittsburgh; “Man of the Year in Labor” by the Pittsburgh Junior Chamber of Commerce; and being named one of the “100 Most Influential Blacks in America” by Ebony Magazine; and
WHEREAS, Nate's community endeavors demonstrate an unparalleled commitment and dedication to his community and nation that commands the respect and admiration of all those for whom he has worked and served;
NOW, THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, that the Allegheny County Council does hereby commend Mr. Nate Smith for his unparalleled commitment to his community, Allegheny County, and nation; With respect and admiration, we join his devoted family and friends in praising and recognizing him, sharing great pride in this extraordinary individual.