(East Harlem, NY)- Senator Serrano joined The East Harlem Holiday Tree Committee, East Harlem community residents, and his colleagues for the 11th Annual El Barrio/East Harlem Tree Lighting ceremony. The tree lighting took place in Franklin Plaza on East 106th Street and Third Avenue. This year's theme is "El Barrio United Through Adversity: Remembering our loss, celebrating our fortitude" and the ceremony was dedicated to all those affected by the East Harlem explosion that occurred in March.

"I had the pleasure of once again of joining my East Harlem friends and colleagues at the annual El Barrio Holiday Tree Lighting celebration," said Senator Serrano. "This ceremony is something that the East Harlem community looks forward to during the holiday season and I thank The East Harlem Holiday Tree Committee for making this a reality every year."

Senator Serrano was joined by New York City Council Speaker Melissa Mark-Viverito, Assemblyman Robert J. Rodriguez and many other community leaders at this fun and festive community event.