“At one point hosting more Irishmen than Dublin itself, Irish-Americans have been an integral part of New York City throughout its vast history. As conditions at home worsened, due to both mistreatment and abuse by the British, and a Great Famine which threw Ireland into starvation, the United States, the land of opportunity, was a refuge for millions of Irish men, women, and children.
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BROOKLYN, NY – As we commemorate International Holocaust Remembrance Day, marking the anniversary of the liberation of Auschwitz-Birkenau, we remember the six million Jews who were killed during the Holocaust.
Nearly 80 years later, anti-Semitism remains an ever-present threat for Jewish communities across our city and nation. Earlier this month, a woman harassed then spat on an 8-year-old boy outside of a Midwood synagogue.
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Kwanzaa is a vibrant, annual celebration emphasizing the significance of African-American culture.
As each of the seven candles in the kinara is lit, we reflect on how every principle and person is interconnected.
By harnessing the power of our community, we have transcended societal barriers meant to hinder our collective progress.
Let us continue to build upon the legacy of our ancestors –
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Wishing all who celebrate the birth of Jesus Christ – the greatest gift ever given to mankind – a blessed and Merry Christmas. May this season of light inspire hope in our hearts and in our homes.
As we look towards a new year on the horizon, let each day bring us closer to love, joy, and peace across communities.
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As another year comes to an end, I am thankful for old and new friends who have rolled up their sleeves and worked towards the betterment of Council District 45.
Together, we have helped thousands of families at risk of economic, food, and housing insecurity while expanding access to healthcare and protections against discrimination.
Our community has faced tremendous challenges, but we continue to persevere because of our collective strength and determination to overcome these obstacles.
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Time may have passed, but the memories and heartache remain for the thousands of families whose lives forever changed after the September 11 terrorist attacks. We have never forgotten the loved ones that we lost in New York City and across this nation. We remember their bravery, compassion, unity, hope, and resiliency in the aftermath. On the twentieth anniversary, our eyes will once again turn to the Tribute in Light that will illuminate our city near the footprints of the Twin Towers as we reflect and observe moments of silence for those we miss dearly.
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On behalf of Council District 45, I would like to share my warmest greetings and congratulations today to the Jamaican diaspora on the 59th anniversary of Jamaican independence. This year’s Independence Day is being celebrated under the theme “stronger together.”
August 6th is not only a celebration of freedom from colonial rule, but also a recognition of Jamaica’s enormous cultural contributions to the global stage —
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Today, Muslims – locally and globally – are observing Eid al-Adha, one of the holiest days in Islam.
The holiday commemorates the story of the Prophet Ibrahim’s devotion to Allah and his willingness to sacrifice his son Ismail.
It is meant to remind Muslims of their faithfulness to Allah and each other.
May this occasion unite us as a community through love, compassion and caring for the needs of others.
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This weekend, the United States of America commemorates the 245th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence and its founding on July 4, 1776.
Our founding principles were rooted in the belief that all men are created and endowed with certain unalienable rights including life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness.
Yet, contrary to this Declaration of Independence, Black and Brown people are still disenfranchised after 400 years of slavery, the Emancipation Proclamation, Juneteenth, and the Civil Rights Movement.
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Wishing a beautiful and blessed Mother’s Day to the women who love and nurture us every day, encouraging us in good and bad times. Thank you for those early mornings and late nights, comforting hugs, and memorable laughs! Although today is a celebratory occasion, for others, it can be a painful reminder of loss and challenges. Let us extend our love and appreciation to the caregivers in our lives, recognizing their importance and impact in shaping the future of our community.
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