Dems express gratitude for annual gala support

The Brooklyn Democratic Party on Friday expressed profound gratitude to patrons at its annual gala at Giando on the Water in the Williamsburg section of Brooklyn.

“We deeply appreciate and thank all who attended the Brooklyn Democratic Party Annual Gala,” said Party Chair, Assemblywoman Rodneyse Bichotte Hermelyn, the daughter of Haitian immigrants, in a statement. 

“We’re grateful for the immense support from the attendees, sponsors, Brooklyn Democratic Party leaders, members and staff, and Democrats across all boroughs for supporting the Party, and candidates ahead of the November General Election, as we also look towards the 2024 Elections,” added the representative for the 42nd Assembly District in Brooklyn. “Thanks to your generosity, we’re even more galvanized to relentlessly engage, mobilize and inform Brooklynites for the General Election to keep our communities and borough Blue.”

Left, to right, Councilmember Farah N. Louis, Party Chair Rodneyse Bichotte Hermelyn, Assemblymember Monique Chandler-WatermanPhotos credit: Brooklyn Democratic Party

On Monday night, Jul. 31, a power-packed roster of Democratic elected officials delivered speeches, including US House Democratic Leader Hakeem Jeffries, US Sen. Charles “Chuck” Schumer, US Sen. Kirsten Gillibrand, NYS Gov. Kathy Hochul, NYS Lt. Gov. Antonio Delgado, NYS Attorney General Letitia “Tish” James, NYS Comptroller Thomas P. DiNapoli, New York City Mayor Eric L. Adams and Bichotte Hermelyn. 

“They delivered exhilarating speeches urging Democratic unity and rallying support to keep Brooklyn, New York, and our nation Blue, and to flip the US House of Representatives to a Democratic majority in 2024,” Bichotte Hermelyn said.

In her address, she asked: “Is Brooklyn in the House? Thank you everyone for attending the Brooklyn Democratic Party’s Gala! Is the Real Brooklyn in the house? 

Gov. Kathy Houchul, AG Letitia James and Brooklyn Dem Chair Rodneyse BichottePhotos credit: Brooklyn Democratic Party

“There are so many energized Democrats and Brooklynites in the house party that is the political center of the universe,” she said. “Brooklyn used to be considered an ‘outer borough’ and now it is the center of it all—we keep rising in recognition and power, with legislators here today who reflect and fight for our beautiful diverse borough. 

“We’re at a pivotal time, to unite as Democrats. By leading Brooklyn forward, we’re leading everyone forward,” Bichotte Hermelyn added. “This is a historical chance to enact historical change as the largest Democratic county party in the US. All of us have the opportunity to unite and make a difference.” 

She congratulated to Labor Union Honorees HTC President Rich Maroko, Local 372 Shaun Francois, UFT Michael Mulgrue and CSA Henry Rubio for “guiding us through the pandemic,” as well as “our small business that is contributing to the economic engine of our borough,” such as Brooklyn Tea, Its Electric, Park Asia and Howell industries. 

“Thank you to everyone for coming, and let’s give it up for our honorees and special guests,” said Bichotte Hermelyn, welcoming special guest, Hochul. 

Labor Union leaders being honored and accepting awardsPhotos credit: Brooklyn Democratic Party

“Gov. Hochul has empowered women and put New Yorkers first throughout her decades in public service,” she added. “She is a role model for women everywhere, a national inspiration, and a pioneer for progress. 

“When our democracy and fundamental rights are under attack, New Yorkers need and deserve a Governor who will always fight for them,” she continued. “Kathy Hochul has proven she’s more than up to the task.” 

As New York State’s 57th and first woman governor, Bichotte Hermelyn said Hochul is “a beacon of hope for our most vulnerable, and our working families, small businesses, and the whole heart of New York State. 

Community Leader honorees being honored and accepting awardsPhotos credit: Brooklyn Democratic Party

“Kathy Hochul has shown determination in uplifting all New Yorkers,” she said. “She stood tall against the dark shadow of the pandemic, building NY back better. 

“With gun restrictions, abortion rights, voting rights and more on the chopping block, Kathy is a true fighter against the GOP,” the Brooklyn Democratic Party leader said. “She keeps cementing New York as a national leader for rights, equity and progress. 

“Our Governor is making immense progress for women’s rights, economic equality and prosperity, safer communities, and so much more,” she added. “With our Gov. Kathy Hochul relentlessly leading the charge, together, we’re shaping a better future for Brooklyn, New York, and our nation.”

Democratic House Leader Hakeem JeffriesPhotos credit: Brooklyn Democratic Party