(Rockland County, NY) — New York Senate Majority Leader Andrea Stewart-Cousins was honored by the 9th Judicial District’s LGBTQ Access to Justice Committee with the LGBTQ Community Distinguished Leadership Award on Tuesday, June 12 (Senator Stewart-Cousins delivering remarks – pictured above). The ceremony also celebrated fellow honorees, retired Judge Michael Sonberg and the LGBTQ Division of Legal Services of the Hudson Valley.
“The Pride Justice Awards is an impactful annual tradition in the Ninth Judicial District. Our honorees this year highlight meaningful contributions to the judiciary’s ongoing and important mission of expanding access to justice for the LGBTQ+ community,” said Judge David Fried, 9th Judicial District Pride Justice Awards’ Planning Committee Chair. “Senate Majority Leader Andrea Stewart-Cousins’ strong efforts and achievements, over many decades, to empower the voices of LGBTQ+ people in the halls of justice made her the perfect recipient for this year’s LGBTQ+ Access to Justice Distinguished Leadership Award.”
Judge David Fried and Senator Stewart-Cousins [Black Westchester]
“I am deeply honored to accept the LGBTQ Community Distinguished Leadership Award, and I thank the 9th Judicial District LGBTQ Access to Justice Committee for this award,” Senator Stewart-Cousins shared with Black Westchester. “This recognition is a testament to the progress New York State has made towards becoming a more welcoming and inclusive place.
Senator Stewart-Cousins was recognized for her leadership in passing some of the most significant LGBTQIA+ bills since marriage equality was signed into law in 2011. This includes the Gender Expression Non Discrimination Act (GENDA), banning conversion therapy for minors, eliminating the “gay panic” and “trans panic” defenses, lifting the ban on surrogacy and legalized gestational surrogacy, restoring eligibility for state programs and benefits for LGBTQIA+ veterans, and creating a suicide prevention task force for LGBTQIA+ youth.
“My conference has always been proud allies of the LGBTQIA+ community, and we will continue to stand up to intolerance and the forces seeking to erase our progress,” said Senator Stewart-Cousins.
With Robert Voorheis and Hon. Michael Sabatino, who nominated Senator Stewart-Cousins and presented the award [Black Westchester]
Senator Stewart-Cousins is also proud to have provided more than $151,000 in funding last year for the LGBTQ Division of Legal Services of the Hudson Valley to continue its outstanding work in the region.
The 9th Judicial District LGBTQ Access to Justice Committee, co-chaired by Hon. James L. Hyer and Hon. David Fried, plays a pivotal role in advocating for equality and justice within the judicial system. Their recognition of Senator Stewart-Cousins underscores her significant contributions to advancing LGBTQIA+ rights and representation in New York.
Senator Stewart-Cousins’ receipt of the LGBTQ Community Distinguished Leadership Award highlights her dedicated efforts and the legislative advancements achieved under her leadership, further solidifying New York’s status as a national leader in LGBTQIA+ rights and equality.
Senate Majority Leader Andrea Stewart-Cousins represents a significant portion of Yonkers, the Town of Greenburgh, and the Town of Mount Pleasant in the 35th NYS Senate District. On December 17, 2012, she was elected Senate Democratic Leader. Stewart-Cousins is the first woman in history to lead a conference in the New York State Legislature.
The recent congressional race for District 16, between incumbent Jamaal Bowman and challenger George Latimer, has set new precedents in campaign financing. AIPAC and other Republican-funded PACs spent over 20 million to unseat the first Black Congressman in CD16, highlighting complex racial dynamics, community leadership, and voter engagement issues.
Congressman Jamaal Bowman, the district’s first Black Congressional Representative, faced a campaign that allegedly employed concerning tactics, including racial stereotyping, divisive rhetoric, and exclusionary messaging. The massive financial backing from AIPAC and other groups adds another layer to the race, highlighting the influence of national and international issues on local politics.
The campaign against Congressman Jamaal Bowman reportedly employed a range of controversial tactics that raised concerns about racial messaging and divisiveness. These included alleged racial stereotyping, with claims that Bowman “only represented Black people,” undermining the ability of Black politicians to represent diverse constituencies. Visual manipulation was also reportedly used, with campaign literature allegedly darkening Bowman’s face, a tactic historically employed to make Black candidates appear more “threatening.” Using phrases like “Black Justice” to describe Bowman’s platform seemed designed to frame racial equity as exclusionary.
In general, the use of dog whistles to appeal to racial biases or prejudices is indeed a tactic that has been employed in various political contexts, including by those who hold or appeal to white supremacist ideologies. This approach can be used to mobilize certain voter bases without explicitly stating racist views. As Black people who are descendants of segregation and Jim Crow, we should not have forgotten what racism looked like and should have recognized the tactics of the Latimer campaign.
The failure to widely acknowledge and confront these tactics is particularly concerning, given the Black community’s historical experience with systemic racism. Our ancestors endured the brutalities of slavery, the oppression of Jim Crow laws, and the struggles of the Civil Rights Movement. This collective memory should have equipped us with a keen awareness of even subtle forms of racial manipulation in political discourse, but we failed.
Furthermore, there were implications that Arab and Muslim communities “don’t belong” in the district, serving to marginalize these groups. Latimer’s failure to appear before the combined NAACP chapters located in the 16th congressional district, could be interpreted as indifference to organizations associated with Black civil rights and gives the impression he doesn’t care what Black people think or have to say. It shows a lack of respect and gives the middle finger to the Black Community. If this was any other group he respected he would have made arrangements or offered to appear before them to hear their concerns and answer their question when he allegedly felt better the next day. Collectively, these tactics appeared to exploit racial anxieties and prejudices, potentially exacerbating community divisions and undermining principles of inclusive representation.
The apparent silence from much of Westchester’s Black leadership in the face of these contentious campaign tactics represents a concerning shift in community advocacy. This lack of public disagreement, particularly from Black pastors, marks a significant departure from the Black church’s historical role as a pillar of civil rights activism and community representation. Such silence could have far-reaching implications for the future of civil rights and equity in the Black communities of Westchester County. It potentially signals a weakening of traditional support systems that have long been crucial in confronting racial injustice and promoting Black interests.
This shift may erode trust in established leadership, leaving a vacuum in advocacy that could slow progress on critical issues affecting the Black community. Young activists and community members might feel unsupported or disillusioned, potentially decreasing civic engagement. The absence of solid and unified voices against divisive political tactics could also encourage those who employ such strategies, making it harder to combat racial stereotyping and discrimination in future political discourse.
Moreover, this situation may reflect a broader challenge in adapting civil rights advocacy to contemporary political landscapes. As issues become more complex and intertwined with national and international concerns, local Black leadership may struggle to navigate these waters effectively. We now see a fragmentation of advocacy efforts and a dilution of the Black community’s political power.
Ultimately, the lack of vocal opposition from Black leaders to these campaign tactics may signify a critical juncture for civil rights advocacy in Westchester. It underscores the urgent need to rejuvenate grassroots organizing, reevaluate leadership responsibilities, and develop new strategies to champion equity and justice effectively in an evolving political environment. The future of civil rights and equity within Black and Brown communities in Westchester may depend on how the community responds to this apparent leadership vacuum. Without a new wave of activism or necessitating a reimagining of how Black communities advocate for their interests in the political arena, Black people have lost in Westchester.
The unprecedented spending in this race raises questions about the impact of money in politics, mainly when directed at removing a representative of a historically underrepresented group. This financial onslaught was reportedly coupled with an expectation of low Black voter turnout based on a perceived lack of engagement from community leaders and what’s been described as a conditioning of young people to deprioritize voting and political participation.
The dynamics of this Congressional race in Westchester County reveal deep-seated issues beyond the surface-level debates about foreign policy. While some news outlets focused on Israel-related matters, the core of this contest was fundamentally about white power and resource allocation in a historically segregated county..
Westchester has long maintained rigid racial and socioeconomic boundaries, with Black and brown residents confined to specific areas despite their achievements and community involvement. The county’s power structure often grants limited influence to minority leaders rather than allowing them to wield genuine authority.
Disturbingly, some Black leaders seemed more comfortable aligning with pro-Israel stances than advocating for their own community’s interests. This highlights a critical disconnect between leadership and the pressing needs of Black constituents.
The Black community’s inability to unite effectively stems from a lack of genuine brotherhood, sisterhood, and collective vision. Many fail to see beyond immediate personal concerns to recognize the broader issues at stake: inadequate representation, persistent economic disparities, and limited political influence that could drive meaningful change for all.
The failures to elect a Black District Attorney in 2024 and the challenges in re-electing the district’s first Black Congressman are stark indicators of the ongoing hurdles facing the community. These setbacks underscore the deep-rooted systemic issues and the urgent need to reevaluate political strategies and community engagement in Westchester’s Black population.
This congressional race in Westchester is a stark wake-up call for the Black community. It highlights the urgent need for us to strengthen our collective bonds, cultivate more effective and responsive leadership, and develop a unified vision that truly represents our interests and needs. The million-dollar question: Are they listening?
The outcome of this election underscores the persistent racial and economic inequities deeply embedded in Westchester’s political landscape. These systemic barriers continue to shape our lived experiences and limit our political power despite the achievements of individual Black electeds.
We must create a shared vision that addresses our unique challenges and aspirations. Consistent, strategic political action and civic participation are also essential. If we fail to take these crucial steps, we risk perpetuating a system where white supremacy maintains its grip on power and resources. Every election where we don’t unite and mobilize effectively allows regressive forces to solidify their control.
The stakes are too high for complacency or disunity. By coming together, supporting genuine advocates for our community, and persistently pushing for substantive change, we can begin to dismantle the structures that have long marginalized us in Westchester and beyond.
This race transcends a single election outcome, a pivotal moment for Black political power and economic equity in our country. We must heed this wake-up call and take decisive action, or risk watching white supremacy triumph repeatedly. Even when we see a Black candidate pushed to the political forefront, we must critically examine who they serve and represent.
Our collective future hinges on our ability to unite, mobilize, and effect real change in the face of entrenched opposition. We can no longer afford to be complacent or divided. The stakes are too high, and the consequences of inaction are too severe.
We must scrutinize who occupies positions of power and how they use that power. Are our elected officials genuinely advocating for the interests of the Black community, or are they beholden to other interests that may conflict with our needs? This level of critical engagement is essential to ensure that our political representation translates into tangible improvements in our lives.
In closing one has to ask the question, did Congressman Jamaal Bowman actually fail the Black community or has the Black Community fail Congressman Bowman when he needed us?
GOP-funded AIPAC spends record-breaking numbers in assault on our democracy
In a race that AIPAC’s Super PAC spending made the most expensive House primary election ever, Congressman Jamaal Bowman came shy of fending off their $15 million Republican-funded challenge to elect the House’s newest Joe Manchin. Bowman’s Republican-backed opponent welcomed over $15 million from AIPAC’s Super PAC and more than $2 million from a Crypto Super PAC – greenlighting what was widely seen as a historic assault on our democracy at the expense of New York voters.
Alexandra Rojas, Executive Director of Justice Democrats, released the following statement:
“Jamaal Bowman is one of the most transformational leaders of our generation. He has become a force in American politics who, alongside the rest of the Squad, has changed the trajectory of the Democratic Party and the urgency we expect from our elected leaders. We recruited Jamaal to run for Congress in 2020 because his life’s work has been deeply rooted in serving his community – as a loving father, husband and community leader serving children and working families as a principal and leading advocate for public education in NYC for over 15 years. Now, he is one of the only members of Congress with the courage to fight for all people, stand up to right-wing, corporate interests like AIPAC, and not back down even in the face of historic spending against him. We could not be more proud of his courage, his commitment to justice, and the sacrifice he has made for all of us in our progressive movement to better understand what it’s going to take to overcome this corporate takeover of our democracy.
“Let us be clear: Jamaal Bowman and the movement behind him are such a threat to right-wing power, to Republican megadonors, and to AIPAC’s influence in Congress that they had to spend over $17 million to defeat us. This race for AIPAC – the single largest outside group spending in Democratic primaries – is so much bigger than re-electing a Congressman. It is part of their final attempts to stop a rising tide of a new generation of voters and leaders who refuse to stay silent in the face of injustice at home or abroad. They know they are losing the war of public opinion, as Democratic voters nationwide stand up for Palestinians rights and lives and call out AIPAC’s right-wing funding, and so they have no choice but to overwhelm, confuse, and depress voters with $15 million to buy a seat in Congress. It is up to us as a progressive movement and Democratic Party to stand up and change this system that sacrifices voters for megadonors.”
Justice Democrats recruited Jamaal Bowman ahead of his first successful primary election against AIPAC’s biggest champion and 20+ year career politician and former House Foreign Affairs Committee Chairman Eliot Engel in 2020. Since then, AIPAC’s lobby has put a target on Bowman’s back, desperate to defeat a member of Congress that not only stands up for Palestinians rights and lives, but threatens the bottom lines of AIPAC’s billionaire donors by leading on policies from Medicare for All and a Green New Deal to raising taxes on billionaires—positions Bowman’s opponent refused to advocate for.
This race was not a referendum on Israel-Palestine policies nor was it an intra-party debate between the so-called left and center. This race was wholly about diverse, working-class, progressive power against Republican megadonors and the right-wing interests that are threatened from having a Congressman Jamaal Bowman in Washington DC. In fact, Congressman Bowman’s policies on Israel-Palestine are overwhelmingly popular with Democratic voters, including support for a permanent ceasefire, support for conditioning military funding to the Israeli government, and believing Israel’s actions in Gaza amount to a genocide. AIPAC is aware that their policy positions on their “single issue” are deeply out of step with Republican voters, which is exactly why they avoid running television ads about it despite their unlimited warchest.
In total, AIPAC spent over $17 million in this race and bundled over $2.4 million for George Latimer—a substantial amount of which came from Republican donors. In fact, through AIPAC’s historic spending this election cycle, they have become the single largest source of Republican donations in Democratic primaries. AIPAC raised more money for George Latimer than any other candidate this cycle, becoming Latimer’s largest source of donations, and spending more in NY-16 than they have ever spent in an election.
This level of spending does not come from a position of power, but from a position of great weakness and desperation. AIPAC knows it has already lost the war of public opinion and support, being exposed as a right-wing lobby funded by Republican interests. Now, it is desperate to put all its resources into individual battles like these to silence other members of Congress who would otherwise stand with the majority of Democratic voters in supporting a permanent ceasefire, conditioning military funding to Israel and supporting Palestinian and Israeli human rights alike . But their path forward is set, AIPAC will soon become our generation’s NRA—moving further and further from a veneer of bipartisanship to unconditionally support right-wing extremism until they become a right-wing pariah rejected by the whole of the Democratic Party.
Next is Cori Bush’s election, where their Super PAC has already spent $1.8TK million using the exact same strategy – disinformation, lies, and avoiding talking about Israel. It’s time for the Democratic Party to make clear that no Super PAC that is spending $15 million in a single race is welcome in our democracy—let alone funded by anti-abortion, pro-insurrection Republican interests.
The City of New Rochelle and the City School District of New Rochelle are hosting a job fair on Tuesday, from 1 p.m. to 5 p.m., in the rotunda at New Rochelle City Hall (515 North Avenue).
Organizers say that attendees will be able to apply and ask questions about the job openings directly to the city and school district Human Resources teams.
The job fair will feature a variety of employment opportunities open to New Rochelle, Westchester County, and New York State residents, including:
police officer
sustainability coordinator
operations manager
assistant city engineer
registered professional nurses (hourly)
food server (hourly)
school crossing guard
general school aides (hourly)
lunch monitors (hourly)
special ed aides (hourly)
laborer (full-time/hourly)
cleaners
Everyone is encouraged to participate.
Learn more about jobs in the City of New Rochelle and the New Rochelle School District here or contact Human Resources by calling 914-654-2168 or emailing civilservice@newrochelleny.com
Wednesday June 19th 4pm in White Plains youth from various advocacy groups across Westchester County came together for a Youth Rally in support to re-elect Congressman Jamaal Bowman.
The youth met at Renessaince plaza park fountains then marched to the voting site on Quarrapos Street. After wards youth alongside adult community organizers and youth program leaders, supported Bowman’s campaign team in canvasing the local area and Mamaroneck avenue Youth wanted to speak up and support the current congressman in light of the current county executive Latimer challenging his seat.
Youth and adult organizers chanted along the walk, “5, 6, 7, 8 Vote Bowman don’t wait!”
All photos by local youth/young adults
Amongst other chants and encouraging words youth were encouraging pedestrians and local businesses to support Congressman Bowman and his re-election. Along the way a few local businesses took flyers to distribute at their locations.
Damon Jones and AJ Woodson address the unauthorized use of their images in a political endorsement by former Peekskill Mayor Andre Rainey. We set the record straight on our true political stance and why we cannot support George Latimer’s campaign. Our guest this week is longtime activist Darrell Davis of Peekskill.
Darrell Davis also endorsed Congressman Jamaal Bowman on his podcast Black and Green on Saturday, June 22nd
Early voting runs until Sunday, June 23rd you can vote as any voting location, see list of times and locations here and The Democratic Primary Day is Tuesday June 25th, you must vote at your regular voting place on Election Day!
Black Westchester presents the People Before Politics Radio Show every Sunday night 6-8PM, streaming live on Facebook, X (formerly Twitter), LinkedIn, Instagram and YouTube and archived on BlackWestchester.com. Giving you that Real Talk For The Community since 2014.
About 300 people braved the intense heat and humidity to support Representative Jamaal Bowman for a final push to get out the vote before Tuesday’s Democratic primary election.
Independent U.S. Senator of Vermont and twice former Democratic presidential primary candidate, Bernie Sanders, joined Bronx Democrats, Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez (NY-14), and Rep. Nydia Velázquez (NY-7), who represents parts of Brooklyn, stump for Congressman Bowman at the last-minute campaign rally organized by AOC’s campaign team in St. Mary’s Park in the Mott Haven section of The Bronx on Saturday, June 22nd. Although Bowman’s district lies well north of Mott Haven and Hunts Point, AOC, his fellow progressive in Congress used her bully pulpit to stump for her colleague in the South Bronx’s biggest park.
“Our brother Jamaal Bowman is under attack,” said Ocasio-Cortez, to loud applause. “He’s being primaried by racism. He is being primaried by greed. He is being primaried by corruption of our politics, and we cannot let them win.”
Westchester Executive George Latimer is running against the progressive who has backed the Palestinian cause throughout Israel’s incursions into Gaza, for his 16th district congressional seat, the North East Bronx and Westchester County. Bowman wasn’t the first Congressman to demand a cease-fire in Gaza, but was one of the most outspoken opponents of Israel’s attack on the Palestinian people.
Rep. Bowman is now the primary focus of AIPAC (the American Israel Public Affairs Committee)’s continuous effort to silence Israel’s detractors. That choice was undoubtedly influenced by history: the Zionist lobby lost one of its most dependable votes in Congress when Bowman unexpectedly defeated nine-term incumbent Eliot Engel in 2020, following a brief national reckoning on race following George Floyd’s murder.
Vermont Senator Bernie Sanders speaking to the crowd at the Bowman Rally in the Bronx [Black Westchester]
John Lennon’s “Power to the People” was pumping through the sound system when Sanders, 82, entered the stage. “I’m here today because this election is one of the most important in the modern history of America,” the seasoned progressive senator told the assembly. “This election is about whether or not the billionaire class and the oligarchs will control the United States government, and our view is no they won’t.”
Sanders concluded, “What this campaign is about is telling the billionaires, and their greed and their super PACs, they are not going to destroy American democracy. On that issue, every person who votes for the Democratic Party has got to be united. We stand together.”
Congressman Jamaal Bowman addressing the crowd at a campaign rally at St Mary’s Park in the Bronx [Black Westchester]
The Wu-Tang Clan’s 1997 anthem “Triumph” was then blasted through the speakers as Bowman took the stage. Before beginning his stump speech with the assertion that “Our movement is more powerful than their money,” the self-described “hip-hop congressman” sang along for a few lines, “Battle-scarred Shogun, explosion, when my pen hits tremendous.”
A few dozen members of the NYPD blocked a gathering of about 200 pro-Palestinian protestors organized by the group “Within Our Lifetime” as the Bowman supporters left the park in the same direction that they had come.
Election Day is Tuesday, June 25, and polls are open from 6 a.m. to 9 p.m. Visit the New York City Board of Elections website at www.vote.nyc/elections to find your polling place and for more details about the election and candidates.
While the Latimer campaign touts the support of many of the Democratic Committees in the district it appears many of the District Leaders in those Democratic Committees, Elected Officials and community stakeholders are not supporting George Latimer but they are endorsing Congressman Jamaal Bowman for re-election (see letter below)
We, the undersigned elected officials and Democratic district leaders, write to urge our fellow Democrats of NY16 to cast their votes for our incumbent Congressman, Representative Jamaal Bowman, in the upcoming primary on June 25th. We have an incredible opportunity to make sure our Congressman stays in Washington to continue his important work for the people of our district. A former principal and father of three, Congressman Bowman shows up, leads with empathy, and is a voice for the people.
We have worked with Congressman Bowman in various capacities and appreciate and value the attention he has brought to urgent issues that government has failed to address in a meaningful way: stopping gun violence, building affordable housing, addressing the climate crisis, ensuring that women have access to quality reproductive healthcare, advocating for environmental justice and LGBTQ+ rights, providing job and career resources for youth and the un- and under-employed, and securing infrastructure improvements for all our communities.
In 3 ½ years, Congressman Bowman has worked to bring over a billion dollars to our district to build a brighter future for everyone, including:
$500,000 for WestHab, Inc. for Affordable Housing Preservation to Promote Housing Equity in Southern Yonkers (FY 2022)
$500,000 for the County of Westchester for Clean Bus Procurement (FY 2024)
$1,500,000 for the City of Mount Vernon for Sewage Cleanup Project to Promote Equity and Resilience in Mount Vernon (FY 2022)
$1,125,000 for Justice Innovation Inc. for a New Rochelle Community Youth Violence Intervention Initiative (FY 2023)
$959,752 for the Village of Rye Brook for a Rye Brook Sewer Rehabilitation Initiative (FY 2024)
$2,560,000 for Westchester County for a Study of the Lake Isle Dam to promote safety, flood mitigation, and environmental justice in Southern Westchester (FY 2023)
$750,000 for the Village of Hastings-on-Hudson for Geothermal Heat Pump System Installation (FY 2024)
$977,827 for the Village of Ardsley for Downtown Revitalization (FY 2024)
Representative Bowman shows up in our communities. He was one of the first federal elected officials on the ground asking how he could help after Hurricane Ida, and regularly hosts town halls on important topics like gun violence and youth mental health. He does this while critically examining federal legislation to ensure his vote aligns with what we sent him to Washington to do — make a difference for those that are far too often forgotten and left out of Washington’s political discourse.
Representative Bowman is a principled, independent voice in Congress, not a “go along to get along” politician. He votes with President Biden more than 90% of the time, but when he disagrees with the President, or with colleagues, on a matter of conscience or principle, he is not afraid to stand up for what he believes in. That’s what leaders do.
On the legislative front, Congressman Bowman works hard to bring issues to the forefront that have been ignored for too long and works with colleagues on both sides of the aisle to get things done.
Introduced over fifty bills, resolutions, and amendments related to education policy, and racial and economic justice, including the African-American History Act, the More Teaching Less Testing Act, the Green New Deal for Public Schools Act, the Fair College Admissions for Students Act, the Heating and Cooling Relief Act, the Emergency Price Stabilization Act, and the RAP Act.
Played a major role in writing the CHIPS and Science Act, one of President Biden’s signature accomplishments, as a subcommittee chair of the House Science committee and one of two freshmen members of the conference committee to negotiate with the Senate. The final CHIPS and Science Act included two of Rep. Bowman’s bills and several of his amendments.
Fought tirelessly to pass the American Rescue Plan, the bipartisan Safer Communities Act, and the Inflation Reduction Act (IRA), including by leading 89 Members of Congress in a letter pushing to restart IRA negotiations when the bill was stalled.
Introduced and passed a House resolution condemning the Great Replacement Theory, and has been one of the leading voices in Congress pushing back against growing white supremacist currents in the Republican Party.
Introduced and passed bipartisan amendments in the House to support veterans’ mental health, increase inflation bonus pay for service members, and publicly disclose the cost of our overseas military footprint.
Successfully pushed the Biden Administration to undertake groundbreaking executive actions to help families and students, including launching its Blueprint for a Renters Bill of Rights to protect tenants, and investigating racist book banning in public schools.
We are from different ethnicities, religious backgrounds, and cultures. We join in appreciation of Representative Bowman’s principled stance on the October 7 attack on Israel and the subsequent violence committed against Palestinians in Gaza and the West Bank.
While Congressman Bowman has been steadfast and clear on Israel’s right to exist and defend itself, voting to approve funding for the Iron Dome and condemning the actions of Hamas on October 7th, from the outset of the current war he has been a leading voice decrying the use of American tax dollars to fund death and destruction in Gaza, continually pressing for a nonviolent resolution. He has since been joined by a majority of Democratic voters and by many Democratic colleagues, including President Biden and Senator Schumer, in urging Israel to exercise restraint and to end the bombing of Palestinian people.
From the start Congressman Bowman has urged the President to work towards a ceasefire and a peaceful resolution that will end the killing and bring the hostages home. Representative Bowman encourages us to dare to navigate the perilous path towards peace, while others resign themselves to never-ending war.
Congressman Bowman’s transformational vision for our future is one in which all people are truly represented in Washington. We are proud to support our Congressman, and we urge you to join us in casting your vote for Jamaal Bowman on June 25th.
Sincerely,
Douglas Alligood, Trustee, Hastings-on-Hudson Nicola Armacost, Mayor, Hastings-on-Hudson Hanan Kamal Eldahry, Trustee – Village of Pelham Nicole Engelbert, Trustee, Tuckahoe Georgia Lopez, Trustee, Hastings on Hudson Hope Marable, Trustee, Mount Vernon Public Library Board/District Leader, Mount Vernon Democratic Committee Shane Osinloye, Councilmember, New Rochelle Emmanuel Rawlings, Village of Mamaroneck Trustee Leilani Yizar-Reid, Village of Mamaroneck Trustee Lou Young, Trustee, Village of Mamaroneck Nicola Coddington, Irvington District Leader, former Mayor of Irvington Elaine Trader, Chair, Dobbs Ferry Democratic Committee Rebecca Pitts, District Leader, Dobbs Ferry Democratic Committee Tasha Young, Town of Greenburgh District Leader, ED 51 Iris Hiskey Arno, District Leader, Hastings-on-Hudson Democratic Committee Lisa Genn, District Leader, Irvington Democratic Committee Eileen O’Connor, Ward Leader, Ward 4 District Leader, Yonkers Matthew Wilson, District Leader, 59th Electoral District, Hastings on Hudson Democratic Committee Eric Eyges, District Leader, Dobbs Ferry Robin Herbert, District Leader, Hastings Democratic Committee Patricia Truscelli, District Leader, Dobbs Ferry Christina lomolino, District Leader, Hastings On Hudson NY Kamran Saliani, Town of Greenburgh, District Leader – E.D. 31, Irvington Democratic Committee Monica Joy Taylor, District Leader, Dobbs Ferry Paul Presendieu, District Leader, New Rochelle Eugene Tozzi, District Leader New Rochelle ED 22, Vice Chair New Rochelle Democratic Committee Sue Tozzi, District Leader New Rochelle Martha Gutierrez, District Leader, New Rochelle Michael Cammer, District Leader, New Rochelle Dr. Alexandria Connally, DL, Yonkers Erica Alexander, District Leader, New Rochelle Lisa Copeland, District Leader, Mount Vernon Dems ED-68 Fran Snedeker, District Leader, Rye Reed Bonadonna, District Ldr, Town of Mamaroneck Melissa Eustace, District Leader, Pelham Manor Gregory Spock, Democratic District Leader, ED5, Pelham, NY Clinton Boxhill, District Leader, Mt Vernon Julie Weiner, District Leader, Yonkers Ward 3 Greg Magann, District Leader, Village of Tuckahoe District 11 Natalie Polvere, District Leader, Yonkers – Ward 11, District 20 Rosa Rivera-McCutchen, District Leader, New Rochelle Veronica Raphael, District Leader, Yonkers NY Dora Onwumere, District Leader , Dobbs Ferry Mae Williams, District Leader, Yonkers 3/17 District, Member WBWPC Linda Archie, District Leader, Yonkers, District 16 Ward 3 Charlene Raynor, District Leader, White Plains Democratic City Committee Marilyn Graham, District Leader, Eastchester, NY Nancy Hite-Norde, District Leader, Tuckahoe Alex Rizio, District Leader, Hastings on Hudson Evelyn Alicea-Santiago, District Leader, Second Vice Chair, White Plains Democratic City Committee & Hispanic Democrats of Westchester Executive Board Marie Houston, District Leader, White Plains Joseline Velez, District Leader, White Plains Kenyetta Thomas, District Leader, Mount Vernon NY Maria Karsou, District Leader, Village of Mamaroneck Joanne Robinson, District Leader, Yonkers Alicia Henriques, District Leader, Mt. Vernon NY Elizabeth de Bethune, District Leader, Yonkers, Ward 4, ED 5 Damaris Mone, District Leader, Mt Vernon Anthony Nicodemo, President – Hudson Valley Stonewall Democrats/Vice-Chair Yonkers Democratic Committee Roberta Robinson, District Leader, Yonkers Wilma Bryant, District Leader, Ward 12, District 1, Yonkers Nancy Ferrer, District Leader, Yonkers Democratic Committee Louis Romain, District Leader, Mount Vernon Benjamin Brown, District Leader, White Plains Democratic City Committee Abel Nofal, District Leader, Yonkers Cheryl Melton, District Leader, White Plains Selma Lewis-Belfor, District Leader, Mount Vernon Steven Rabinowitz, District Leader, White Plains Desirée Dismore, District Leader, Yonkers Jonathan Davis, District Leader, Mount Vernon Evelyn Cardona, District Leader, Ward 3, District 3, Yonkers Lucille Renwick, District Leader, New Rochelle, District 4 Niamh Hartnett Merluccio, District Leader, Chair of Bronxville Democratic Committee William Gaston, District Leader, Bronxville Democrats Philip von Mehren, District Leader, Bronxville Patricia O’Keefe, District Leader, New Rochelle Daphne Torres, District Leader, New Rochelle Delia M Farquharson, DL and Former Councilwoman, Mount Vernon <>
In addition to the signees of the above letter, Former Mount Vernon Mayor Ernie Davis, Blacks In Law Enforcement of America and the Westchester Correction’s Association held a press conference in Mount Vernon Friday, June 21st to announce their endorsement of Congressman Jamaal Bowman.
Others throughout the district wanted to share why they are supporting Congressman Bowman’s re-election.
I support Jamaal Bowman for a third term Congress because he is an advocate for peace and the wellbeing of ALL children. He governs for everyone — fighting for healthcare for all, a Green New Deal, environmental justice, and money for communities in need — not just the wealthy. We need bold, principled leadership in Washington to save our democracy and planet earth. Congressman Bowman has only been in office for 3 years and is one of a handful of elected representatives pushing for transformational change in Washington. He is the future of the Democratic Party. MAGA Republicans are so threatened by this they are now trying to buy off a Democrat, funding his opponent with record-breaking sums of money from special interest groups. It’s disheartening but #WeDecide on Election Day who represents us. – Rebecca Pitts, Dobbs Ferry Democratic District Leader
Congressman Bowman is an example of the kind of leaders we need in Washington. He is a true voice of the people and uncompromising in his beliefs, OUR beliefs – Education, climate, gun control, and how the economy truly affects marginalized communities. He is on the ground and I’m proud to stand with him.
– Trustee Georgia Lindahl Lopez, Hastings on Hudson Board of Trustees
We need someone who looks at policy from an equitable perspective in Congress, someone who believes that change is possible by being a change agent. We have that in Representative Jamaal Bowman.
I support progressives like Jamaal Bowman because we need system disruption. In Westchester County black youth make up 14% of the population yet are 62% of the youth detainees. Black maternal health intervention is seriously underfunded, affordable housing is grossly unaffordable for working class people. I pray that elder statesmen like our County Executive would embrace younger progressives and not attack and displace them. I also support the underdogs. $22mm against a sitting Congressman is not Democratic, it’s financial bullying and it’s racist.
– Tasha Young Town of Greenburgh District Leader, ED 51
36,000+ dead. 15K of them children. 2000 lb American-made bombs being dropped on babies. Forced starvation of millions.
This has to end. I support Congressman Bowman because he is calling for a negotiated cease fire, release of the hostages and an end to the bombing.
– Hanan Kamal Eldahry
Trustee, Village of Pelham
Nancy Hite-Norde, District Leader, Tuckahoe
I support Jamaal because he brings the vision and the passion we need to address our existential climate crisis, because we need the courage and commitment to invest in all of us so that all of us can thrive, and because we can’t do it all unless the ultra wealthy pay their fair share.- Lisa Genn, District Leader, Irvington Democratic Committee
I support Congressperson Bowman because he’s been highly effective in his first 2 terms, and because he has had the courage to stand up for issues that must be urgently addressed to protect the future of the earth and our fragile democracy:
• Climate change
• Economic inequality
• Equal rights
• Getting big money out of politics
• Improving our educational systems
On a local level, Congressperson Bowman has brought over $1 billion to our district for initiatives that address climate change and mitigation of its effects, gun violence prevention, mental health care, and health care in general. He’s focused on helping working families and the most economically marginalized groups in the district – not just the wealthy.
He’s both a visionary and a realist. He brings me hope for the future at a time when the world has become a scary place. We need leaders like him for both now, and for our future.
Robin Herbert, District Leader, Hastings-On-Hudson Democratic Committee
“I feel strongly that Congressman Bowman deserves our continued support. He is a progressive who represents the interests of all his constituents, not just the ones with money, and I appreciate his hard work for policies that would make for a more equitable society. While I previously supported George Latimer in all his prior races, I am incensed that he is wasting Democrats’ time and money (and taking AIPAC money) challenging a good progressive when there are so many other seats to protect and regain.”
– Nicola Coddington, Irvington District Leader, former Mayor of Irvington
I support my Congressman Jamaal Bowman because he has stood up for causes I care about like climate justice, Medicare for All, and good and affordable education and housing.
He has brought over $1 billion to our district for initiatives in communities from the wealthiest to the poorest. Jamaal’s message is peace and love. He’s a critical voice in DC.
– Iris Hiskey Arno District Leader, Hastings-on-Hudson Democratic Committee
Israel’s war against Palestinians is highly profitable to investors in the arms industry – as will be any war with Iran in which Israel succeeds in involving the U.S. Jamaal is a peacemaker; his opponent’s interest in international affairs is limited to supporting whatever the Israeli government does, right or wrong.). And because Jamaal is young and energetic, and has a future as an increasingly influential progressive Member of Congress he has already proved to be. His past-retirement-age opponent has already said he does not expect ever to lead any committees or draft any environmental bills. As County Executive, Latimer’s corruption has led to acceptance of donations from and renewal of a contract with a company profiting by feeding substandard food to incarcerated children. Jamaal seeks to enhance educational and job opportunities in black and brown and currently low-income communities and end gun violence, drug deaths and mass incarceration. Jamaal has a vision and is making it happen by collaborating with the president and his fellow legislators. Latimer has money from AIPAC’s GOP billionaire contributors; his campaign is nothing but lies and distortions of Jamaal’s record. He has articulated no vision but unseating our – the people’s – Congressional representative. – Julie Weiner, District Leader, Yonkers Ward
“Jamaal is not only the leader we need for our urgent concerns today, he is what our youth deserve in order to build a better tomorrow.”
– Matthew Wilson, District Leader, 59th Electoral District, Hastings on Hudson Democratic Committee
I support Jamaal for Congress because he speaks truth to power and doesn’t cater to special interests and big money corporate PACs. He is principled and is not afraid to work for bold transformative change for ALL people of NY16. – Elaine Trader, Chair, Dobbs Ferry Democratic Committee
I voted for Congressman Jamaal Bowman because of his commitment to stand on justice and truth, even when it makes things difficult or uncomfortable. Congressman Bowman has supported Biden’s agenda, while having the moral courage to simultaneously push for more progressive policies that will benefit all of us. –Rosa Rivera-McCutchen, District Leader, New Rochelle
I support Congressman Bowman! He represents all his constituents! Congressman Bowman has Not been bought by donors! – Maria Beatriz Karsou, District Leader, Village of Mamaroneck
We support Jamaal because he listens to us! He cares about and fights for the issues that matter to us, that lift up all of us. AND He can jump double dutch! – Elizabeth de Bethune, District Leader, Yonkers, Ward 4, ED 5 & Eileen O’Connor, Ward Leader, Ward 4 District Leader, Yonkers
I am proudly supporting Congressman Bowman as he isn’t afraid to stand alone in his fight for social justice. He is a leader who shows up for our community. His immediate and public stance for a ceasefire is exactly what we need to see from our elected officials. – Desirée Dismore, District Leader, Yonkers
“Besides President Obama, there has been only one other politician in my life who has activated such a specific sense of pride and hope … and it’s Jamaal Bowman.” -Kamran Saliani, Iranian-American District Leader for Greenburgh, E.D-31
(1) Until we are all free, no one is free (2) Supporting a genocide is not an option, Jamaal Bowman will stand up for peace! – Monica Joy Taylor, District Leader, Dobbs Ferry
Jamaal Bowman is the greatest advocate for public education in Washington and we need him to continue his advocacy for our kids. – Anthony Nicodemo, Vice-chair City of Yonkers Democratic Committee, President Hudson Valley Stonewall Dems, Lifelong educator and coach
I’m supporting Rep. Bowman because came to Congress already understanding and deeply committed to the urgent imperative of addressing the climate crisis. George Latimer has never, ever been progressive or proactive on environmental issues. — Natalie Polvere, District Leader, Yonkers – Ward 11, District 20
I support Bowman because of his outspoken, consistent, and unwavering support for social justice. – Michael Cammer, District Leader, New Rochelle
I have grave concerns about the role of big money, we don’t want millionaires and billionaires dictating who our Congressional Representatives are. – Steve Rabinowitz, District Leader, White Plains
June 20, 2024 – Volunteer New York! celebrated the latest graduating class of Leadership Westchester, its signature professional development program. The nine-month program provides select individuals with the opportunity to sharpen effective leadership skills and gain clarity in defining and achieving their personal and professional goals. The event was held on Monday, June 17th, from 5:00 PM to 7:00 PM at the Westchester Community College Gateway Center in Valhalla, NY.
“We are thrilled to graduate another remarkable class of local leaders from Leadership Westchester,” said Jeanette Gisbert, Executive Director of Volunteer New York!. “Participants in our program not only gain deeper clarity and understanding of their personal vision and mission but also expand their professional networks and build the confidence to lead effectively. They also join the supportive and influential networks of Volunteer New York! and the Leadership Westchester alumni community.”
Every year, Volunteer New York! selects an alum to honor who has continued to demonstrate the mission of Leadership Westchester. Emily Saltzman, class of 2017, embodies leadership and community service. As Deputy Director of Operations for Westchester County, Emily has demonstrated exemplary leadership since 2018, overseeing numerous departments and guiding the county through the COVID-19 pandemic. Her initiatives included developing support systems for nonprofits, food pantries, and small businesses. Emily’s collaboration with organizations like Nonprofit Westchester and the Westchester Women’s Agenda reflects her deep commitment to community service and effective public administration. Her contributions to local governance and community well-being make her an outstanding example of the Leadership Westchester mission.
“I am deeply honored and humbled to have been selected as the 2024 Leadership Westchester Alumni of the Year,” says Emily Saltzman. “Every day in my work for Westchester County, I utilize the principles I learned in Leadership Westchester to assist County residents and make a positive difference in their lives. Being part of the Leadership Westchester family has been a meaningful and transformative professional and personal experience for me. I look forward to celebrating this fantastic program and the 2024 graduates.”
“These 20 graduates have spent the past nine months clarifying how they want to impact the world around them, and they’re leaving the program with powerful interpersonal skills, extraordinary relationships, and collective passion to truly move the needle in Westchester and beyond,” said David Severance, facilitator of Leadership Westchester and President of New Door Leadership.
For those interested in being a part of the 2024-25 Leadership Westchester class, visit the website to connect with an alum of the program if you have any questions or fill out an application for consideration. As part of this program, you are guaranteed to form a dynamic, exclusive, and connected community of caring people who are active in learning and demonstrating the practice of leadership, in creating communities that reflect their highest ideals and aspirations, and are considerate of how they choose to show up.
One of the graduates was Jordan Cormier, the Director of Programming at Youth Shelter Program of Westchester, who has been featured in Black Westchester.
“To say it was a journey is an understatement. I’m proud of the journey Leadership Westchester led me through. By the grace of God I’m officially a 2024 graduate of Leadership Westchester. Congratulations to the my amazing colleagues turned family on this remarkable achievement,” Jordan shared with Black Westchester.
Another graduate who has also been featured in Black Westchester several times was Jonathan Campozano who began his career practicing immigration law as an Immigrant Justice Corps Fellow at the Empire Justice Center in Yonkers.
Graduates of the 2024 Leadership Westchester Class are: Marykate Acquisto, The Quinn Law Firm Veronica Bazan, Women’s Enterprise Development Center Dana Belin, Honey Beez Childcare Center Mary Benjamin, Westchester Parks Foundation Jonathan Campozano, Neighbors Link Yin Choy Chen, R2M Realty, Inc. Jordan Cormier, Youth Shelter Program of Westchester Juan Diaz, M&T Bank Jessica Friedlander, Volunteer New York! Bruce Jackson, Feeding Westchester Nikhil Jagga, CMIT Solutions Adam Kintish, M&T Bank Tuesday Paige McDonald, City of Peekskill Youth Bureau Travis Melby, SUNY Westchester Community College Kara Pacheco, Webster Bank Victor Parada Becky Silverstein Allashia (Allie) Smith-Harris, ACT Institute André Thompson Robin White, AT&T
Leadership Westchester is supported generously by M&T Bank and The Westchester Library System.
“I am proud to stand with my friend @JamaalBowmanNY. When people stand together against the billionaire class and their corporate interests, there is nothing we cannot accomplish,” Sen. Sanders tweeted after the rally.
In a display of progressive unity and grassroots energy, U.S. Senator Bernie Sanders and Congressman Jamaal Bowman electrified a crowd of supporters at a campaign rally held at MacEachron Park in Hastings-on-Hudson, Friday. The event, which drew a diverse mix of community members, voters, and activists, served as a platform for the two leaders to champion their shared vision for a fairer and more equitable society at the park on the riverfront next to Harvest on Hudson restaurant.
However, the rally was not without its political contrasts. As Senator Sanders and Congressman Bowman emphasized their commitment to progressive values and policies, they also shed light on the contrasting approach of Bowman’s challenger, County Executive George Latimer. It was revealed that Latimer, who has previously presented himself as a progressive candidate, has veered away from progressive principles by accepting funding from right-wing MAGA Republicans and AIPAC.
Amidst the scenic setting of MacEachron Park, Senator Sanders and Congressman Bowman delivered impassioned speeches that resonated with themes of economic justice, healthcare reform, climate action, and racial equality. Their messages of empowerment and collective action reverberated through the crowd, inspiring attendees to continue working towards a better future for all.
Latimer’s shift in allegiance to accept support from these conservative factions, known for their opposition to many progressive policies, raised eyebrows among attendees at the rally. The decision to align himself with MAGA Republicans and AIPAC was seen as a departure from his previous stance as a progressive candidate, leading to questions about his commitment to advancing the values and priorities of the progressive movement.
In stark contrast to Latimer’s choice to align with right-wing interests, Senator Sanders and Congressman Bowman reiterated their unwavering dedication to progressive ideals and grassroots activism. Their commitment to fighting for the rights and well-being of working families, marginalized communities, and the environment was met with resounding support from the crowd, underscoring the importance of staying true to progressive values in the face of political pressures.
As the sun set on the rally at MacEachron Park, the resounding message of hope, unity, and progressive change championed by Senator Sanders and Congressman Bowman lingered in the air, leaving attendees inspired and motivated to continue the fight for a more just and equitable future.
“Billionaires are not only spending huge amounts of money to support Latimer’s campaign, they are also making donations to right-wing, extremist candidates. We will not allow the corporate interests of the billionaire class to take down strong progressives like @JamaalBowmanNY,” Sanders tweeted.
For further updates on the campaign efforts of Senator Bernie Sanders and Congressman Jamaal Bowman, and to get involved in their progressive movement, visit www.bowmanforcongress.com.
