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[Para ver la versión en español visite aquí).
Dear Neighbors,
This weekend, we come together to remember and honor the valiant souls who served in our armed forces. As we gather with loved ones this Memorial Day weekend for backyard barbecues and, weather permitting, celebrate the season's opening of New York City's public beaches where swimming begins anew, let us reflect on their sacrifices. One of the best ways to honor our heroes is to continue to fight and defend our freedoms and rights to human decency in our very own backyards. Rest assured, the Senate Democratic Majority and I stand committed to this cause.
A Community Mourns and Calls for an End to Domestic Violence
This past week, our community was shaken by the horrific news of losing a beloved neighbor. We are deeply saddened by the tragic loss of Shirley, a 29-year-old woman fatally stabbed by her ex-boyfriend on her way to work in Washington Heights. This heinous act occurred outside her apartment on Haven Avenue, leaving us in mourning. Despite her courageous fight, Shirley succumbed to her injuries at Harlem Hospital. Before her death, she identified her assailant to her father. The attacker fled but was later apprehended by police at a relative's home in the Bronx.
This appalling event underscores the persistent problem of domestic violence, particularly affecting Black and Latina women in New York City. Such murders have escalated by nearly 30% year-over-year, even as overall homicides have decreased by 11%. According to the National Coalition Against Domestic Violence (NCADV), every minute, nearly 20 people are affected by domestic abuse nationwide.
More than ever, it is crucial to confront the alarming issue of violence within intimate relationships. Intimate partner violence does not discriminate; it transcends race, age, gender, sexuality, religion, education, and economic status. It can affect anyone, in any circumstance, whether as victims or perpetrators.
Ending domestic violence necessitates unwavering solidarity and support. I am committed to standing shoulder to shoulder as an ally alongside organizations committed to transforming societal norms and eradicating domestic violence.
Your safety and well-being are paramount. If you or someone you know is experiencing domestic violence or seeking support as a survivor, please contact any of the following resources:
Together, we can make a difference in the lives of those impacted by domestic violence.
The Fight for the Inclusion of the Equal Rights Amendment (ERA) on NY's Ballot
In a contentious move reflective of the deepening political divide, conservative Republican Judge has issued a ruling aimed at blocking the inclusion of the Equal Rights Amendment (ERA) on New York's ballot. This decision is a stark reminder of the lengths to which extremist Republicans will go to stifle progress on democracy and women's rights, especially in a critical election year. It is viewed by many as a calculated attempt to prevent public discourse and voting on vital issues like abortion rights and equal representation.
This ruling isn't just about legal precedents; it's a clear maneuver in "court shopping," a tactic often employed by the right to influence outcomes by choosing conservative jurisdictions. An outgoing Republican State Assembly Member (Marjorie Byrnes), with her history of opposing rights for the LGBTQ community and restricting abortion access, waited until the proximity of the elections to file this lawsuit, further spotlighting the strategic timing intended to impact voter rights and public opinion.
New York’s Attorney General is already challenging this ruling, bolstered by historical instances where over a dozen constitutional amendments passed without needing an opinion from the Attorney General, as noted in the state’s constitution. The broader hope hinges on higher courts recognizing and overturning what many see as a politically charged attempt to sidestep democracy, thereby upholding New Yorkers' overwhelming support for the ERA and their fundamental rights.
As your state senator I assure that I will always stand with my Senate Democratic Majority on the correct side of history and fully support ensuring the ERA is on the ballot.
Stay in the loop!
Stay informed on what’s going on in Albany during this legislative session. Follow me on social media and check out the Senate website for updates.
I hope this weekends finds you comforted by the presence of the mothers in your life and/or the memory of mothers passed.
Peace & blessings,
RJ
*I invite you to continue reading this weekly update for valuable information on resources and employment opportunities. Stay safe!
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