Chairman Crowley Hosts 19th Annual Black History Month Celebration

Chairman Crowley Hosts 19th Annual Black History Month Celebration

(Queens, N.Y.) – Last week, Congressman Joe Crowley (D-Queens, the Bronx), Chairman of the House Democratic Caucus, was joined by New York Senate Democratic Leader Andrea Stewart-Cousins (D-Westchester) to commemorate Black History Month and honor local leaders in the African-American community. The annual event provides an opportunity for attendees to celebrate the rich history and vast achievements of the African-American communities in Queens and the Bronx.

“Black History Month allows us to celebrate the vibrant African-American communities in New York and across the country,” said Chairman Crowley. “It was a privilege to be joined by Senator Stewart-Cousins, whose historic accomplishments are a model for all Americans. It was also an honor to recognize the vast contributions Reverend Gilberto A. Hinds of the Episcopal Church of Grace and Resurrection and Detective Adriane Johnson make in our communities. Importantly, Black History Month allows us to visualize a future beyond the Trump administration’s agenda of bigotry and fear and come together for progress.”

“I’m so pleased to participate in Congressman Crowley’s annual event in recognition of African American History,” said Sen. Stewart-Cousins. “Black history is American history, and wonderful events like his honor the legacy, culture, sacrifice, and achievements of black pioneers, who have worked so hard to achieve so much.”

During the event, Chairman Crowley presented Sen. Stewart-Cousins with a portrait of the Unisphere at Flushing Meadows-Corona Park in Queens, one of the borough’s most iconic monuments and a symbol of community.

Chairman Crowley also honored two public servants who have devoted themselves to improving the lives of their fellow residents. This year’s honorees were Reverend Gilberto A. Hinds of the Episcopal Church of Grace and Resurrection and Detective Adriane Johnson, community affairs officer for the 115th Precinct.

NYC Public Advocate Letitia James, NYC Comptroller Scott Stringer, NYS Assembly Member Michael DenDekker, NYC Councilmembers Danny Dromm, Costa Constantinides, and Francisco Moya, and NY State Senator Michael Gianaris joined Chairman Crowley at the event, which was held at Bruno’s on the Boulevard in East Elmhurst.

Attendees were treated to a spiritual musical performance by Patricia McLaughlin. The invocation was led by Reverend Dr. Marvin J. Bentley from Antioch Baptist Church.

Crowley has hosted an annual Black History Month event every year since 2000. Past guests of honor include former President Bill Clinton, U.S. Attorney General Eric Holder, Civil Rights Leader and Congressman John Lewis, Congressman Cedric Richmond (D-La.), NBA great Len Elmore and NYC First Lady Chirlane McCray.

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