Serrano On Passing Of Councilmember Philip Reed

East Harlem, NY - State Senator José M. Serrano (D-Manhattan/Bronx) today mourned the loss of former City Councilmember Philip Reed, calling him a dauntless civil servant who will be dearly missed by colleagues and constituents alike.

"I was fortunate to serve with Phil on the City Council. He was an elected official who opened doors and opened minds," said Serrano.

"In the State Senate, I now represent a lot of Phil's old council district, and I see first-hand the contributions he made to this community. You cannot find a person on the street who does not have kind words for Phil Reed," he said.

"New York City and State have made tremendous strides when it comes to protecting gay rights, and also the rights of people with HIV/AIDS. Frankly, I don't think we would have come this far without Phil's leadership.