FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

CONTACT:
Kristia Winter, Communications Director
KWinter@council.nyc.gov, 718-629-2900

BROOKLYN, NY — Council Member Farah N. Louis (D-Brooklyn), co-chair of the Women’s Caucus,issued the following statement after former New York City First Lady Joyce Dinkins passed away at the age of 89. She was the first African-American woman to serve in this capacity.

STATEMENT BY COUNCIL MEMBER LOUIS

“As a city, we mourn the loss of a giant —New York City’s first African-American First Lady, Joyce Dinkins.  

“From Harlem to the Gracie Mansion, First Lady Dinkins’ lifetime of public service was remarkable. She was a dynamic woman who championed education, literacy, expanded access to healthcare and the arts. During her tenure, she served as an honorary chair of the Mayor’s Task Force on Child Abuse and the Chairperson of “The First Day Back to School Initiative,” which was dedicated to providing New York City children with the resources that they need to excel in their academic studies.

“Her wise counsel, leadership, and compassion are all of the qualities that helped define the Dinkins Administration. First Lady Dinkins was incomparable.

“On behalf of the Women’s Caucus and all of the constituents in District 45, we send our thoughts and prayers to the Dinkins family during this time. May she rest in power. 

“At 89, she leaves behind two children, two grandchildren, and a legacy that strengthened the foundation of our city.” 

New York City Council Member Farah N. Louis represents the 45th Council District, which is comprised of Flatbush, East Flatbush, Midwood, Marine Park, Flatlands, & Kensington in Brooklyn, NY. She is a member of the committees on Civil Service and Labor; Economic Development; Education; Finance; Housing and Buildings; Youth Services; and Justice System. Council Member Louis is the Co-Chair of the Women’s Caucus and Vice Co-Chair of the Black, Latino, and Asian Caucus.

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