Today, Nicole Lucio officially announced her intent to run for Mount Vernon City Council, pledging to focus on improving Mount Vernon by encouraging open communication, collaboration, and a strong commitment to the community. A longtime resident of Mount Vernon, Nicole Lucio is eager to address the city’s challenges and work collaboratively with all residents to build a brighter future.
“Living in Mount Vernon, I’ve experienced firsthand the strength and resilience of our community,” said Nicole. “I’m running for City Council because I believe it’s time to prioritize operational and oversight shortcomings, produce revenue-generating opportunities, address aged infrastructures, take care of our obligations to first responders and emergency personnel, address public safety concerns, and promote civic education while ensuring every voice in our city is heard and respected.”
Nicole Lucio brings both public and private sector experience to the race. With attempts to defraud our financial institution continuing to hit the headlines in Mount Vernon and nationally, Nicole understands how to mitigate against financial and reputational damage effectively. As a financial professional, she has demonstrated a proven knowledge and understands how to implement internal controls, and she is committed to the highest standards of compliance. Nicole serves as an advocate for youth and seniors. She has participated as Chair of Mount Vernon’s Board of Ethics, Board Member for Westchester Community Health Center (formally the Mount Vernon Neighborhood Health Center), Member of the Charter Revision Commission, Member of the Westchester Black Women’s Political Caucus, participation in the Usher Ministry at Grace Baptist and Macedonia Baptist Church in Mount Vernon.
Nicole shares with Black Westchester, that a key component of her platform includes Restoring the Public Trust and Demonstrating Fiscal Responsibility.
“Our city deserves leadership that listens, learns, and takes action,” said Nicole Lucio. “Together, we can create policies that promote our community, strengthen our neighborhoods, and ensure a prosperous future for generations to come.” Nicole Lucio is eager to connect with residents, share their vision, and hear directly from the community.
Maryland Governor Wes Moore has been appointed by President Donald J. Trump to the bipartisan Council of Governors, a distinguished group dedicated to enhancing collaboration between state and federal governments on critical issues such as national security, disaster response, and military affairs. This appointment, announced by the White House on February 19, 2025, marks the second time a Maryland governor has been selected for the council, following former Governor Martin O’Malley’s tenure as co-chair from 2010 to 2015. Moore is a member of the Democratic Party. He won the 2022 Maryland gubernatorial election, becoming Maryland’s first African-American governor and the third African-American person elected governor of any U.S. state.
The Council of Governors was established under the National Defense Authorization Act of 2008 and formalized by Executive Order 13528 in 2010. It comprises ten governors—five Democrats and five Republicans—who collaborate with federal agencies, including the Department of Defense, the Department of Homeland Security, and FEMA, to synchronize efforts on matters of national importance.
“I am honored to serve on the Council of Governors and look forward to working with my fellow governors and federal partners to protect our communities and strengthen our national security,” Governor Moore stated. “Collaboration between state and federal agencies is critical in times of crisis, and I am committed to ensuring Maryland plays a key role in these discussions.”
In his role on the council, Governor Moore will engage in shaping policies related to homeland defense, cybersecurity, emergency preparedness, and National Guard operations. His extensive background as a U.S. Army veteran and his commitment to military families position him as a valuable contributor to the council’s mission.
The council’s current co-chairs are Governor Glenn Youngkin of Virginia and Governor Josh Stein of North Carolina. Other appointed members include Governors Ron DeSantis (FL), Brian Kemp (GA), Jeff Landry (LA), Gretchen Whitmer (MI), Kathy Hochul (NY), Josh Shapiro (PA), and Henry McMaster (SC).
Governors appointed to the council serve two-year terms, during which they provide strategic guidance on integrating state and federal military activities, enhancing disaster response protocols, and advising on federal budgetary considerations related to homeland security.
Governor Moore’s appointment underscores Maryland’s influential role in national discussions on security and emergency management, reflecting the state’s ongoing commitment to contributing to policies that safeguard both its residents and the nation.
MSNBC is revamping its lineup in a bold move that has canceled longtime host Joy Reid’s 7 p.m. program, The Reid Out. The network’s new president, Rebecca Kutler, announced this decision as part of a comprehensive restructuring effort to address ongoing viewership declines.
Recent Nielsen data highlights a concerning situation for the network. Since the November election, primetime viewership has plummeted by 54%, falling from 1.1 million to only 736,000 viewers. Meanwhile, Morning Joe, the network’s flagship morning program, has experienced its lowest ratings since 2021, facing a 41% decline in the critical 25-54 demographic after the backlash over co-hosts Joe Scarborough and Mika Brzezinski’s controversial meeting with President Trump at Mar-a-Lago.
Historically, MSNBC thrived in a climate of intense political polarization, with its hard-hitting, anti-Trump rhetoric attracting a loyal audience. However, critics now argue that the network’s heavy reliance on this approach has alienated moderate and independent viewers—particularly in the wake of a cooling political landscape following Kamala Harris’s loss to Trump. As political tensions ease, MSNBC seems to be struggling to hold on to its once-devoted audience.
Joy Reid, a prominent critic of President Trump and a fixture on MSNBC since 2016—first hosting AM Joy’s weekend program before moving to the 7 p.m. slot in 2020—will see her final episode air this week. Her departure from primetime marks a strategic shift for the network as it aims to revitalize its image and rebuild its viewer base.
A new panel show led by anchors Alicia Menendez, Michael Steele, and Symone Sanders Townsend will fill the void left by The ReidOut. While the network has not yet shared Joy Reid’s next steps or any possible new role for her, this programming shakeup highlights MSNBC’s urgent response to an evolving media landscape and changing viewer preferences.
As the network navigates these turbulent times, industry observers note that the current changes may indicate a broader transformation in cable news—one where traditional, ideologically driven content must adjust to a more fragmented and competitive market.
President Donald Trump’s latest proposal, the “Trump Dividend,” has sparked a heated debate over whether surplus government funds should be returned directly to taxpayers. Supporters hail the plan, which would distribute unspent federal allocations to the American people, as a necessary and fair refund of taxpayer money. Critics, however, argue that it is a politically motivated stunt that prioritizes short-term gain over long-term economic stability.
Proponents of the Trump Dividend argue that the money rightfully belongs to taxpayers, not to the government. If funds have been collected but remain unused, they contend that it makes sense to return them to the people who contributed to the system. Unlike previous stimulus payments, this check would not be funded through borrowing or new government expenditure, which means it would not increase the deficit or significantly contribute to inflation. Additionally, returning surplus funds could promote greater fiscal responsibility in Washington, compelling lawmakers to be more cautious about wasteful spending. Many Americans, particularly those struggling with rising costs, could also gain from immediate financial relief instead of waiting for the government to determine how best to use the money.
Critics, on the other hand, question the effectiveness of a one-time payment. While direct cash relief is appealing, it does not address underlying economic challenges. Instead of issuing checks, opponents suggest that the government should reinvest unspent funds in infrastructure, education, or debt reduction—areas that provide long-term benefits. Others raise concerns that injecting large sums of money into the economy, even if sourced from existing funds, could still contribute to inflation by increasing consumer demand.
The timing of Trump’s proposal has also ignited accusations of political maneuvering; some view the dividend as a strategic tactic to garner support. If Trump successfully delivers money directly to Americans, it could enhance his reputation as a leader who prioritizes the financial well-being of average citizens. Democrats find themselves in a challenging position—opposing the measure could make them seem unwilling to return taxpayer money while supporting it could allow Trump to gain political capital.
Another argument against the Trump Dividend is that the funds could be allocated more effectively. Instead of distributing the same amount to every American, some critics propose directing the money toward lower-income families, veterans, or student debt relief. The concern is that providing payments to those who do not require them represents an inefficient use of resources.
The Trump Dividend is neither an economic catastrophe nor a perfect solution. However, it serves as a classic example of a populist policy—one that resonates because of its simplicity. The idea that taxpayers should receive unspent funds is hard to argue against, but whether this represents the best use of those funds depends on one’s perspective. Supporters of smaller government and direct economic relief see this as a fair refund, while advocates for strategic investment in public programs contend there are better ways to utilize the money.
Regardless of one’s stance on the issue, the Trump Dividend has already shifted the conversation. If it moves forward, Trump will have provided a tangible financial benefit to voters. If it is blocked, the opposition risks seeming to prevent the return of money to the people. The debate ultimately centers around a fundamental question: Should unspent government funds be returned to taxpayers, or should they be reinvested in broader economic initiatives?
In a historic and momentous ceremony, Kash Patel took the oath of office as the Director of the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), pledging to uphold the Constitution, restore trust in the agency, and ensure justice is applied equally to all Americans. His appointment marks a significant milestone, as Patel is the first Indian-American and Hindu to hold this prestigious position, reflecting the growing diversity in U.S. federal leadership.
A Pledge to Defend the Constitution
As Patel stood before an audience of close friends, family, and government officials, he placed his hand on a guitar—a symbolic touch reflecting his unique journey—and took the solemn oath to “support and defend the Constitution of the United States against all enemies, foreign and domestic.” In an emotional speech following the oath, Patel acknowledged the weight of responsibility placed upon him and expressed deep gratitude to those who had supported him along the way.
“I am living the American dream,” Patel said. “Anyone that thinks the American dream is dead, just look right here. You’re talking to a first-generation Indian kid who’s about to lead the law enforcement community of the greatest nation on God’s green earth.”
His words resonated with many in the room, highlighting his rise from a background in law, national security, and intelligence to now leading one of the most powerful law enforcement agencies in the world.
A Call for Accountability and Reform
Patel did not shy away from addressing the challenges facing the FBI and the nation at large. He pledged to eliminate any perception of a two-tiered system of justice, ensuring that the law applies equally to all citizens.
“There will be accountability within the FBI and outside of the FBI, and we will do it through rigorous constitutional oversight starting this weekend.”
His remarks reflected a commitment to restoring faith in the agency, which has faced criticism in recent years for political bias and lapses in transparency. Under his leadership, Patel assured that the FBI would function as a non-partisan entity devoted solely to upholding the rule of law.
Tackling Crime and National Security Threats
A significant portion of Patel’s speech was dedicated to addressing rising crime rates and national security threats. Citing alarming statistics—including 100,000 drug overdose deaths, 17,000 homicides, and the rampant spread of fentanyl—he made it clear that his administration would take a hard stance against crime and those who endanger American lives.
“We cannot have a United States of America where that is acceptable. It will not be allowed to continue.”
He also reaffirmed the FBI’s role in counterterrorism and safeguarding national security, vowing that any individual or group seeking to harm Americans, either domestically or internationally, would face swift and decisive action.
“If you seek to hide in any corner of this country or any corner of this planet, we will put on the world’s largest manhunt, and we will find you.”
A Personal Tribute to Supporters and Mentors
Throughout his speech, Patel deeply thanks those who had shaped his journey. He acknowledged the unwavering support of his family, particularly his sister Nisha and nephew Ane, who traveled from London to witness the occasion. His girlfriend, Alexis, was also present, as were several close friends and mentors.
Notably, Patel gave a heartfelt thanks to former President Donald Trump, recognizing the trust and faith he had placed in him throughout his career.
“We were just with President Trump, and I just want to thank him. What a ride we have been on.”
He also acknowledged Attorney General Pam Bondi, calling her his “sister, mentor, friend, and boss.” Patel emphasized their shared commitment to upholding the rule of law and ensuring justice is served impartially.
Is this a Bold New Direction for the FBI?
As he concluded his speech, Patel addressed members of the media directly, acknowledging past criticisms but emphasizing his unwavering dedication to his mission.
“You’ve written everything you possibly can about me that’s fake, malicious, slanderous, and defamatory. Keep it coming, bring it on, but leave the men and women of the FBI out of it. They deserve better.”
Patel’s tenure as FBI Director promises to be one of accountability, reform, and renewed faith in law enforcement. His words resonated with those in attendance, signaling the beginning of a new chapter for the FBI—one where constitutional principles, justice, and national security remain at the forefront.
“God bless America,” Patel concluded, as applause filled the room.
Senator also extends thanks to Guard members for their work in NYS correctionalfacilities
New York State Senator Pete Harckham presented a special Senate Proclamation and medal today to Brigadier General Isabel Rivera Smith, the first woman and Latina commander of the New York Army National Guard’s 53rd Troop Command, based here at the Camp Smith Training Site here in Cortlandt, NY.
“I congratulate General Smith for assuming command of this important unit in the Army National Guard and being a trailblazer as the first woman and Latina to head the 53rd Troop Command,” Harckham said. “I also want to thank Guard members from Camp Smith who are assisting the New York State Department of Corrections as it faces current challenges in upstate correctional facilities. The sacrifice and commitment of these men and women show how invaluable they are to all New Yorkers.”
Appointed in October 2024 to replace Major General Jack James at Camp Smith, Brig. Gen. Smith was the first Latina and woman to lead one of the two major commands of the New York Army National Guard.
“As commander of the 53rd Troop Command, it is an honor to be recognized by Senator Harckham for all the hard work that our soldiers do to support not only the National Guard, but also the many local communities that we assist,” said Smith, an Iraq War veteran.
Sen. Pete Harckham with Brig. Gen. Isabel Rivera Smith and members of the Camp Smith Command Staff. Credit: Office of State Sen. Pete Harckham / James Persons.
The 53rd Troop Command is one of the New York Guard’s two general officer commands, with troops located across the state in combat support and combat service support roles. The Guard was recently deployed to assist workers at state correctional facilities with tasks including distributing meals and medication to incarcerated individuals and helping maintain general order and wellness.
Brig. Gen. Smith also serves as the Director of Joint Staff for the New York National Guard, overseeing joint Army and Air Guard operations, which include responses to state emergencies. She will continue in that role while serving as the 53rd Troop Command leader.
Born in Lorain, OH, to Puerto Rican parents, Smith enlisted in the active Army in October 1985 as a Motor Transport Operator. Her command assignments and operational deployments include commander of the Headquarters detachment of the 53d Troop Command, commander of the 369th Special Troops Battalion, and deputy team chief at Iraq Police National Headquarters in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom in 2010.
Brig. Gen. Smith’s awards include the Legion of Merit, the Bronze Star Medal, the Meritorious Service Medal, the Army Commendation Medal, the Army Achievement Medal, the Army Good Conduct Medal, the Iraq Campaign Medal, the Global War on Terrorism Service Medal, and the Humanitarian Service Medal. She is also the recipient of the 2017 Latina Style Military Service Award.
James Roger Rice, a devoted husband, father, grandfather, attorney, and man of deep faith, went to be with the Lord on February 16, 2025, at the age of 75.
Born on January 1, 1950, in Buffalo, NY, to James Albert Rice and Frankie Jones Rice, Roger was raised in a home shaped by Christian values, instilled in him by his mother. At the age of 13, he was baptized at Faith Baptist Church by Rev. Rosco Mitchell, a moment that solidified his lifelong faith in God. Before he left for college, though his mother had no financial wealth to offer, she gave him Psalm 120:1 “In my distress, I cried to the Lord, and He heard me.” That scripture became his anchor through every season of his life.
Roger was a standout student-athlete at Hutchinson Technical High School in Buffalo, where he excelled on the basketball court, earning All-City honors for his skill and leadership. His talent led to a full basketball scholarship to Kings College in Wilkes-Barre, PA, where he continued to play the game with heart, discipline, and excellence—qualities that he would later carry into his career and family life. Beyond his own playing career, he became a dedicated youth basketball coach, pouring his life into his sons and other youth. For many, he was more than a coach; he was a mentor and a guiding force, helping to build lifelong friendships and lasting lessons both on and off the court.
While pursuing his Juris Doctor degree at the University of Buffalo, Roger’s life took a beautiful turn when he met Gail, the love of his life, on the very first day of law school. Their first date was nothing short of legendary—crossing borders from the American to the Canadian side of Niagara Falls. That fateful meeting led to a lifetime of love, partnership, and purpose. They married in 1978; two sons were born of this union.
In 1982, Roger and Gail took a leap of faith together, founding their own law firm, Rice & Rice, Attorneys-at-Law. Their firm, which later included both sons, became a pillar of the community, serving countless clients with integrity, wisdom, and compassion. Upon the retirement of the founding partners in 2019, Rice & Rice closed after over 35 years of service.
Above all, Roger was a family man. He took immense pride in the achievements of his wife, children, and grandchildren, celebrating their victories and supporting them in every endeavor. His love for his family was unwavering, and his presence was a source of strength, encouragement, and wisdom.
Photos courtesy of Facebook
Roger’s faith was central to his life. After his marriage, he became a member of Shiloh Baptist Church of Tuckahoe where he was ordained as a deacon. Over the years, he also worshiped at Bethesda Baptist Church of New Rochelle, and, until the time of his passing, was a founding member of Renaissance Christian Church in Harlem. His commitment to his faith was evident in how he lived—serving his community, mentoring others, and walking in integrity.
Roger was pre-deceased by his parents Frankie and James Rice; brother Lawrence C. Brown; sister Frances Marshall; daughter-in-love, Danielle Williams Rice; and his parents-in-love, Mabel and Herman Whitaker.
He leaves behind a legacy of love and devotion, cherished by his wife, Gail Rice; his sons, Jared and Jordan Rice; his daughters-in-love, Jasmine and Jessica Rice; and his treasured grandchildren, Jocelyn, Jayden, Jameson, and Josiah Rice. He is also survived by his siblings-in-love Sandra and Glen McGhee, Quincy and Gail Brooks, Joyce and Keno Johnson, and Margo Clarke; uncles Prince Allen Whetstone and Arnold Brooks; nieces and nephews Paula and Charles Barber, Spencer and Helen Rodriguez, Luis, Alexander and Jasmine Rodriguez, Talia and Edward Faustin, and Darren and Christine Brooks. Additionally, a host of great-nieces and nephews, cousins, extended family members, friends, colleagues, the Rice & Rice family, and former clients will forever remember his kindness, wisdom, and generosity.
His impact will be felt for generations to come, and his legacy will continue through those he loved and mentored. Roger Rice lived a life well-loved and well-lived. His presence will be deeply missed, but his footprint will endure forever.
Roger Rice was a true Black Westchester Legend! Our prayers and condolences to his family and friends.
Former Congressman Jamaal Bowman, Ed.D., the first African American in history to represent New York’s 16th congressional district, in celebration of Black History Month donated his congressional papers, memorabilia, and artifacts to be memorialized at the Mount Vernon Public Library, Wednesday, February 19th.
“The Mount Vernon Public Library hosted a Black History Month event honoring Congressman Jamaal Bowman. The gathering celebrated his significant contributions to education and social justice, reflecting his dedication to uplifting marginalized communities,” MVPL Executive Library Director Timur Davis shared with Black Westchester. “Congressman Bowman, a former educator and founder of the Cornerstone Academy for Social Action, has been a staunch advocate for equitable education and systemic reform. His tenure in Congress was marked by efforts to address disparities in education and promote social justice.”
Former Congressman Bowman said he was honored and humbled to be part of history at the MVPL.
“Serving the 16th district and Mount Vernon specifically has been the honor of my life. As a lifelong educator, I hope to continue to inspire a love of scholarship and literacy in the people of Mount Vernon and beyond. I also hope to continue to celebrate our libraries as the ecosystems of learning that they are,” Bowman shared with Black Westchester.
The Mount Vernon Public Library Board of Trustees voted unanimously to accept the contributions from Congressman Bowman on Wednesday, January 15, 2025.
“The rare donation of Dr. Bowman’s Congressional Papers will no doubt elevate the value of our Library’s Special Collections. With age its value will increase; evolving as a standard reference source for historians, archivists, and storytellers alike,” MVPL Board Of Trustees President Hope Marable shared with Black Westchester.
“The event featured speeches from local leaders and community members, highlighting the importance of education and activism in the fight for equality. Attendees reflected on the progress made and the work still needed to achieve true equity,” MVPL Director Davis shared. “This commemoration underscored the enduring impact of Congressman Bowman’s work and the ongoing commitment of the Mount Vernon community to honor Black history and advocate for social change.”
“Much love and respect to our beloved brother, Congressman Jamaal Bowman, who dedicated his congressional papers to Mount Vernon Public Library,” Greenburgh Community Activist Clifton Abrams.
Black History Month has always been a time of reflection and introspection. It is a time to take a moment, however brief, to marvel at the rich tapestry of preserved Black cultural traditions and heritage, acknowledge the extraordinary societal contributions of Black leaders and pioneers, and draw strength and inspiration from the sacrifices and achievements of celebrated leaders and legendary ancestors.
More than merely honoring ancestral achievements, celebrating Black History Month honors the tangible and intangible contributions of Black resilience, including collective self-awareness, collective self-confidence, and collective self-agency skills.
Knowing one’s history contributes to one’s mental well-being because it validates one’s heritage, thereby increasing cultural pride, affirming self-identity, and bolstering self-worth- especially important when facing microaggressions and negative stereotypes.
Understanding how racially motivated adversity and atrocities gave birth to undeniable tenacity and triumphs within the context of one’s ancestral history provides a historical roadmap that informs one’s critical thinking, strategic decision-making, and adaptive problem-solving in the face of current challenges.
The Dangers of Losing Historic Connections
Increasingly, though, opportunities to learn and draw strength from Black resilience within the context of Black history are becoming less accessible. Ongoing efforts across many states to eliminate the Black historical narrative from the curricula within educational institutions continue to gain momentum.
The result? There is now limited access to books written by black authors, elimination of discussions about racial history, and a downplaying of the significance of slavery. Questions about the relevance of Black History Month and other such celebrations threaten to erase the existence and acknowledgment of Black history—and its associated lessons in moral courage, unflinching faith, and relentless resilience.
From a psychological perspective, the elimination of intergenerational examples of historical resilience within Black culture can negatively affect the development of key individual resiliency traits, such as self-understanding and self-regulation. Black resiliency necessitates being able to place (and understand) oneself in a broader historical context. It also draws strength and guidance from proven self-control strategies used by one’s ancestors to safeguard their mental, emotional, and overall well-being in the face of systemic and existential challenges.
As opportunities to explore, study, and draw inspiration from the cultural practices, shared experiences, and ancestral wisdom embedded in Black history continue to shrink, we, as a community, and a country, are challenged to use this Black History Month to not only celebrate but concentrate on the protection and preservation of Black history.
Why fight to preserve Black History?
Because Black history is inextricably tied to the promotion and perpetuation of Black resilience, which historically has always been tied to individual and collective survival. Together, they serve as twin pillars withstanding the prevailing winds of historical erasure that threaten to eradicate societal understanding of the unique and invaluable contributions of Black culture- a critical aspect of American heritage. Erasing Black history means separating individuals from the empowering knowledge of their struggles, triumphs, and contributions; disaffirming their individual and collective identities; increasing their vulnerability to internalized negative self-perceptions; and removing opportunities for intergenerational coping and healing.
Weakening the pillar of Black history ultimately weakens the pillar of Black resilience, which, unlike other types of individually grit-based resilience, is a collective experience. Black resilience is shaped by history, in particular, the legacy of slavery, segregation, and racial injustice. Unlike traditional resilience models, it incorporates cultural pride and draws heavily from the lessons and legacies of ancestral wisdom. It is committed to the transmission of historical intergenerational strength through multiple avenues, including but not limited to storytelling, family networks, rituals, community, advocacy faith-based practices, social movements, art, music (gospel, hip hop, jazz), mentorship, sports, education, grassroots and organized activities, allyship and ritual celebrations (i.e., Juneteenth).
Ultimately, the pillars of Black history and Black resilience are foundational to American history and to society at large. Erasing them doesn’t just weaken a people: it weakens society by diminishing collective knowledge, respect, appreciation, equity and empathy and progress. It also makes us less capable of addressing ongoing challenges.
Wielding the Shield and the Sword: Fighting for the Future of Black History
Moving forward will require more than hope and optimism. It will take intention, determination, and sustained action to make sure that Black history and Black resilience are not just highlighted in February but fully integrated into everyday life. From reclaiming narratives to supporting independently owned businesses, to legal advocacy, to grassroots activities, to political activism, mentorship, and faith-based initiatives, we (meaning everyone–not just Black people) must be individually and collectively committed to the protection and preservation of Black history and the promotion of Black resilience.
Ultimately, no act of support for Black history or Black culture is too small. Even tiny, seemingly insignificant acts of kindness, caring, and compassion can have a profound impact by planting seeds of faith and hope in the harsh and unforgiving soil of racism and anti-Blackness. As history has often shown, repeated micro-actions by committed individuals standing together, regardless of race, can create a ripple effect that protects the promise of a more equitable and inclusive future—a promise that Black resilience has preserved and propagated through centuries of opposition and persecution.
For anyone committed to the ongoing fight for preservation and protection, it’s worth remembering that Black resilience, though collective, starts with the individual experience. Fighting to preserve it, promises to be a grueling, unforgiving, relentless, and potentially all-consuming battle. Self-care and self-preservation are critical internal resiliencies that should not be sacrificed as the battle escalates into a war.
Why? Because it’s hard to win a battle if the soldiers are worn down or dead.
Maya Angelou’s timeless words- “I can be changed by what happens to me, but I refuse to be reduced by it”—remind us that Black resilience is both a shield and a sword, capable of accepting a painful reality yet refusing to succumb to it. Black history must continue to serve as the irreducible reservoir of knowledge, determination, faith, and pride from which today’s leaders can draw strength, courage, and wisdom to continue the work of ensuring that historical sacrifices, struggles, and achievements are not erased as the battle for a more equitable and inclusive future intensifies.
Dr. Derek H. Suite is a board-certified high-performance psychiatrist and nationally recognized physician-leader. With over 25 years of experience, Dr. Suite currently serves as the lead sports psychiatric consultant to four iconic sports franchises—the New York Knicks, New York Jets, New York Rangers, and formerly the New York Liberty. He is also the Lead Restorative Practices Clinician Consultant for Major League Soccer (MLS), providing expert critical incident guidance and restorative interventions. Dr. Suite’s influence extends beyond sports, having provided professional evaluations and strategic mental wellness program consultation to mission-critical leaders within local, state, and federal agencies, including the United States Congress, the U.S. Department of the Treasury, and the United States Army. His success lies in seamlessly integrating evidence-based interventions with leadership psychology, allowing organizations to excel under high-stakes conditions. As the founder and CEO of Full Circle Confidential, a nationally recognized resource for sports mental performance and executive leadership coaching, Dr. Suite oversees a team of highly trained professionals providing confidential peak performance consultation to elite athletes, C-suite executives, and leaders in mission-critical roles. His work has been featured in Forbes Magazine, The New York Times, The Psychiatric Times, and Black Enterprise Magazine, underscoring his national reputation as a leader in the field of mental health and performance psychology. Dr. Suite’s scholarship includes published articles on healthcare disparities, intimate partner violence, resilience, and trauma, showcasing his ability to translate clinical research into practical, real-world solutions. His multidimensional coaching philosophy is rooted in integrating medical science with leadership strategy to address underlying conditions that impact performance, including sleep, mood & anxiety, addictions, cultural context, and stress-related issues
After asking a Latino lawmaker, Jose Alvarado if he is a citizen during a public hearing, U.S. Congressman Mike Lawler is receiving backlash and criticism. Local activists said it is an illustration of the type of profiling Latinos are seeing as a result of the Trump administration’s immigration crackdown. Alvarado, who is a U.S. citizen, and the Vice Chair of the Westchester County Board of Legislators says Lawler’s response left him appalled and some other members of the board shocked.
Alvarado, who represents the 17th District, which covers Southwest Yonkers stated, “To be honest, my jaw just fell; I didn’t know how to react.”
The New York Working Families released the following statement on what they call Mike Lawler’s “shocking comments at the County Board Meeting.”
In response to Congressman Lawler’s racist and xenophobic comments questioning Legislator Jose Alvarado’s citizenship, NYWFP Westchester-Putnam Chairs Jennifer Cabrera and Noah Gitta released the following statement:
“We strongly condemn Congressman Mike Lawler’s insensitive and shocking comments in the Westchester County Board of Legislators meeting. Clearly, the Congressman believes that the status of Latinos is always under question. We doubt that Congressman Lawler would’ve questioned the immigration status of legislators who are not Hispanic, including the two County Legislators who immigrated from Europe. One must be a US citizen to hold public office in Westchester, something that Congressman Lawler should know.
“More concerning than his comments to Legislator Alvarado is Lawler’s support for the Trump Regime’s mass deportation agenda. Immigrant families in Congressional District 17 and throughout the country are living in fear, regardless of their immigration status. We believe that everyone residing in our country must be treated with respect and dignity.”
“What is his right to question another duly elected official, a high-ranking duly elected official in Westchester County about his citizenship status,” says Alvarado.
Lawler addressed his comments a short time later during the meeting, “Yes, I understand to hold office, you have to be a citizen,” Lawler said.
Honduras is where Alvarado was born. He told News 12 that he has since experienced the American dream. On the Westchester County Board of Legislators, he is the first Latino Majority Leader. Though not for himself, he wants Lawler to apologize.
“The community needs to hear an apology from him,” Alvarado says.
Yonkers City Councilmember Corazon Pineda-Isaac also has organized in conjunction with Hispanic Democrats of Westchester, elected officials, community leaders, and advocates, a rally at the Westchester County Office, Thursday morning at the Westchester County Office, to denounce recent racist and xenophobic remarks made by Rep. Mike Lawler, who questioned the citizenship status of a Latino official.
“The comments, which have sparked outrage among Latino communities, reflect a dangerous and discriminatory attitude toward immigrants and people of color,” Pineda-Issac shared.
The Democratic Caucus of the Westchester County Board of Legislators also released the following statement:
“Rep. Lawler’s actions are deeply disrespectful to the Vice Chairman and an open affront to Latinos and all people of color in Westchester County and beyond. Congressman Lawler should know that all elected officials in this state, including those in Westchester County, must be U.S. citizens to hold office. We stand firmly by our colleague, José Alvarado and demand a full and immediate apology.”
