Senator Serrano Celebrates Black History Month

Senator Serrano celebrated Black History Month in the Bronx by participating in two incredible events. First, Senator Serrano co-sponsored Council Member Vanessa Gibson’s Black History Month Celebration with Assembly Member Latoya Joyner. This ceremony was held at the Bronx Museum of the Arts and honored five worthy individuals - Detective Fred Washington, Rita Jones, Pastor Jay Allen Gooding Sr., Thomasina Bushby and Shaquille Bent.

“This event was a wonderful celebration of the tremendous accomplishments of the African American community. We were proud to honor such an amazing group of individuals who inspire us each and every day,” said Senator Serrano.

The following week, New York State Senator José M. Serrano and Congressman José E. Serrano hosted their annual Black History Month Celebration in the Bronx with local community groups, advocates, and local elected officials.

Held at Hostos Community College, the event honored five individuals who have been advocates and community leaders in the Bronx and New York City: Marricka Scott-McFadden, Deputy Bronx Borough President; Hon. Latoya Joyner, Assembly Member for the 77th NYS Assembly District; Linda Kemp, Founder of Bringing the Peace and Building the Community; Kathleen Saunders, Community Board 4 Chair. The Honorable Aurelia Greene, Former Bronx Deputy Borough President & NYS Assembly Member (Speaker Pro-Tempore) was also presented with the U.S. Congressional and NYS Senate Lifetime Achievement Award this year.

"I was proud to join Congressman Serrano in hosting our annual Black History Month Celebration, held at Hostos Community College. This event is a wonderful celebration of the tremendous accomplishments of the African American community, and how these accomplishments have had such a positive impact on our entire nation. Black History is American History, and we should recognize all the gifts that this community has given to our society as a whole," said Senator Serrano.