Statement From Senate President Malcolm A. Smith Re: Percy Sutton

“New Yorkers lost a pioneer in the historic realm of Harlem politics on December 26, 2009.  For decades Percy Sutton was one of the driving forces in the African American community.

He was a political mentor to many, including myself. It's trailblazers like him that made it possible for me to become the first African-American President in the history of the New York State Senate.

Percy understood the importance of economic independence and inspired many of today’s entrepreneurs by forming his own media empire.

He will be truly missed by everyone.”