Caribbean politicians celebrate Christmas, Hanukkah, Kwanzaa

Caribbean-American legislators have been extending holiday greetings to their respective constituents – whether it’s Christmas, Hanukkah or Kwanzaa.

“As we come to the close of another year, I want to take a moment to wish you and your loved ones a joyful and peaceful holiday season,” said Assembly Member Brian Cunningham, the son of Jamaican immigrants, who represents the 43rd Assembly District in Brooklyn. “Whether you are celebrating Christmas, Hanukkah, Kwanzaa, or simply taking time to reflect and rest, the holidays are a wonderful opportunity to come together, share love, and cherish the bonds that unite us as a community.

“In the spirit of the season, let us continue to embody kindness, generosity, and hope as we look ahead to the new year,” he added. “I am deeply grateful for the privilege of representing such a vibrant and diverse district, and I remain committed to serving you with dedication and care.

“From my family to yours, happy holidays and best wishes for a prosperous and healthy New Year,” Cunningham continued.

Assembly Member Monique Chandler-Waterman, the daughter of Jamaican and Barbadian immigrants, who represents the 58th Assembly District in Brooklyn, took “a moment to reflect on the journey we’ve shared and express our heartfelt gratitude for each of you.

“You all have been a source of strength, inspiration and connection,” she said. “Whether you’ve contributed with your time, energy, or simply your presence, you’ve helped make the AD 58 community much more brighter.

“The holiday season is a time for celebration, reflection, and gratitude, and we are so thankful for the support and togetherness that define our community,” she added. “It is our hope that this season bring you peace, joy, and cherished moments with loved ones.

“We look forward to continuing our journey together in the year ahead—growing, learning, and supporting one another,” Chandler-Waterman continued.

Council Member Farah N. Louis, the daughter of Haitian and Bahamian immigrants, who represents the 45th Assembly District in Brooklyn, noted that one of the greatest events ever recorded in history was the birth of Jesus Christ.

“His unconditional love for mankind was unparalleled,” she said. “Today, the holiday spirit continues to live on through our acts of kindness and compassion.

“May we forever cherish the greatest gift of all time, our many blessings, and the traditions shared with loved ones,” Louis added.

State Sen. Roxanne Persaud, the Guyanese-born representative for the 19th Senate District in Brooklyn, wished her constituents “a wonderful holiday season filled with warmth, laughter, and good cheer.”

She also wished them “a joyful and light-filled Hanukkah, filled with love, peace, and cherished moments with family and friends.”

Assembly Member Rodneyse Bichotte Hermelyn, the daughter of Haitian immigrants, who represents the 42nd Assembly District in Brooklyn, wished “you and your loved ones a Merry Christmas filled with joy, peace, and heartfelt moments.

“May the warmth of this season bring comfort to your home and happiness to your heart,” said the chair of the Brooklyn Democratic Party.

“Thank you to everyone who contributed to our Annual Toy Drive,” she added. “Thanks to your generosity, we collected over 300 toys for distribution; spreading joy to families in need through local community organizations. Your kindness and holiday spirit have truly made a difference in our community.”

Bichotte Hermelyn also wished “a warm and wonderful Hanukkah to all those celebrating.”

Hanukkah this year began on the evening of Wednesday, Dec. 25, and continues through Thursday, Jan. 2, 2025.

The assemblywoman noted that this cherished holiday, known as the “Festival of Lights,” commemorates “a remarkable moment in history over 2,000 years ago.”

On Kwanzaa, which is observed from Dec. 26 through Jan. 1 each year, Bichotte Hermelyn said it is “a beautiful celebration of African-American culture, history and community.”

Created in 1966 by Dr. Maulana Karenga, this week-long observance honors seven core principles, known as the Nguzo Saba: Umoja (Unity); Kujichagulia (Self-Determination); Ujima (Collective Work & Responsibility); Ujamaa (Cooperative Economics); Nia (Purpose); Kuumba (Creativity); and Imani (Faith).

Bichotte Hermelyn noted that the holiday is marked by “vibrant traditions including songs, dances, storytelling, poetry readings, and shared meals—all symbolizing unity and cultural pride.

“May this Kwanzaa bring you and your loved ones peace, reflection and celebration!” she said.