'United in Thanks' march in Marine Park honors essential workers, those who died in the pandemic

August 3, 2020

Originally published in News 12 Brooklyn

Marine Park residents and elected officials came together Sunday to honor essential workers and remember those who lost their lives to COVID-19.

About 70 people marched and were required to wear face masks and social distance.

State Sen. Andrew Gounardes organized the event to unite the community, offer healing to those who lost family members and to thank the essential workers who have worked throughout the pandemic.

"We took a moment just to show our appreciation as a community, united together," Gounardes said.

Following the "United in Thanks" march, a vigil was held around the Carmine Carro Community Center to honor essential workers who are still putting their lives on the line every single day.

City officials and state legislators also took the time to highlight those who lost their lives to COVID-19.

"This COVID virus is a true discriminator and went to the most vulnerable among us," said New York City Comptroller Scott Stringer.

"People of color have been more likely to get sick from the virus, more likely to die from the virus," Gounardes said. He added that moving forward in New York's COVID-19 recovery, it's important to recognize the struggles the communities faced.

"We want to rebuild in the way that makes sure everyone is on a equal level playing field," Gounardes said. "Everyone has a fair shot, equal shot and that everyone has a chance to just live a safe and healthy life."