Senator Gómez Honors Legacies of Benjamin Swan and Henry Thomas III on Senate Floor
State Senator Adam Gómez (D-Springfield) today led the Massachusetts Senate in honoring the lives and legacies of former State Representative Benjamin Swan and longtime Urban League of Springfield President and CEO Henry Thomas III by offering separate adjournments in their memory.
The Senate adopted two distinct adjournment motions recognizing the profound and lasting contributions Swan and Thomas made to Springfield, Western Massachusetts, and the Commonwealth.
“Benjamin Swan and Henry Thomas III dedicated their lives to advancing opportunity, justice, and equity in Springfield and beyond,” said Senator Gómez. “Though they served in different roles, both understood that leadership is rooted in service to community—Representative Swan through his lifelong fight for civil rights and commitment to ensuring government worked for those too often left out, and Henry Thomas through his decades of work expanding opportunity for young people and families through the Urban League. Springfield is stronger because of their leadership, and their legacies will continue to shape and inspire generations to come as we honor two lives defined by purpose, compassion, and an unwavering commitment to others.”
Benjamin Swan was a lifelong public servant, educator, veteran, statesman, and champion for civil and human rights. As a young activist and organizer, he participated in the Civil Rights Movement and joined historic demonstrations in the South before dedicating decades of service to public life in Massachusetts.
Swan represented the 11th Hampden District in the Massachusetts House of Representatives from 1995 to 2016, where he became one of the Legislature's most respected advocates for civil rights, social justice, educational equity, and underserved communities. Widely regarded as the conscience of the House, he was known for his principled leadership and unwavering commitment to equality.
In a separate adjournment motion, Senator Gómez honored Henry Thomas III, whose decades of leadership helped shape Springfield through his service as President and CEO of the Urban League of Springfield. Under his leadership, the organization expanded educational opportunities, workforce development initiatives, youth programming, and community partnerships that helped thousands of residents access pathways to success.
A tireless advocate for economic empowerment and educational opportunity, Thomas dedicated his career to strengthening families, uplifting young people, and advancing equity throughout Springfield and western Massachusetts. His leadership and commitment to service left an enduring mark on the community and inspired countless residents and future leaders.
During Senate session, Senator Gómez reflected on the enduring contributions of both men and their shared commitment to building a stronger, more equitable community.