Dear Friends:

Today we honor and celebrate the life and legacy of a giant, Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.

Dr. King dedicated his life to the civil rights movement and the fight for equality and justice. On this day, I recognize two giants in New York State: State Senate Majority Leader Andrea Stewart-Cousins and Assembly Speaker Carl Heastie. This year would have been Dr. King’s 90th birthday, and it is the first time in New York State history that both legislative chambers are led by an African-American. I am proud to be able to call Majority Leader Stewart-Cousins and Speaker Heastie my colleagues and friends. They are remarkable individuals dedicated to removing barriers, serving the public good and promoting justice and opportunity for all New Yorkers.

As we consider how to honor Martin Luther King Jr. Day, I encourage you to look into volunteer opportunities in your community through Volunteer New York! The local non-profit provides valuable information on projects and initiatives seeking volunteers in your area.

Kind regards,

Shelley B. Mayer