Senator Andrea Stewart-Cousins Inducted Into American Women of African Heritage's Spirit of Women Archive

Westchester County, NY – State Senator and Senate Democratic Leader Andrea Stewart-Cousins was inducted into the American Women of African Heritage’s Spirit of Women Archive in the special collections section of the library at Westchester Community College in Valhalla, New York on Thursday night.

Every two years, the American Women of African Heritage induct qualified candidates into an electronic Spirit of Women Archive that honors the legacies and achievements of influential and accomplished African American women.  This archive compiles detailed biographies of each inductee’s life and a series of documents, including newspaper clippings and similar articles, that collectively paint a picture of their deeds and triumphs and demonstrate the positive changes they have made in the world.

Senator Stewart-Cousins was honored for the achievements she has made during her many years as a trailblazing public servant.  She fostered inclusion as director of community affairs for the City of Yonkers, authored Westchester's Human Rights Laws as a County Legislator and, as Senator, was elected the first female legislative leader in New York State history.   In this capacity, she helped lead the successful fights for paid family leave and increased minimum wage, and continues to advocate for the protection and expansion of the rights of all New Yorkers and an economy that works for everyone.

“I am thrilled to be a part of AWAH, where we are recognizing the tremendous contributions Senator Stewart-Cousins has provided to all of us in New York State,” said Eddie Mae Barnes, who served as co-chairperson of the event alongside fellow AWAH member Gwen Court.  “As a resident of the Town of Greenburgh, she represents me in the State Senate – and we greatly appreciate all she’s done.”

“This evening’s event is in support of Women’s History Month, and it is acknowledges women, particularly those of African American descent, who have made significant contributions to further the cause of diverse women,” said Francine Shorts, president of AWAH.  “AWAH feels that Senator Stewart-Cousins has made a definite difference in furthering the rights of people of color.”

Senator Stewart-Cousins was inducted alongside May Morgan Robinson, a civil rights trailblazer and renowned Democratic leader in Westchester County who was honored posthumously at the induction ceremony.  Robinson co-founded the Nepperhan Community Center in Yonkers, served as Vice Chairwoman of the Westchester County Democratic Committee, and founded the civil rights group Westchester Citizens for Justice.

“It’s an honor to be inducted into an archive of such inspirational and powerful women,” said Stewart-Cousins.  “It’s important that these stories be preserved and told so our children and their children can learn from the lessons their lives teach us.”   

The American Women of African Heritage are committed to educating the people of Westchester County about prominent African American women and the many contributions they have made to the county, the state, and the world.  To access the Spirit of Women Archive, please visit: https://www.awah.org/.