Weekly News from State Senator Gustavo Rivera!

SENATOR RIVERA IN THE COMMUNITY

SENATOR RIVERA TESTIFIED ON THE KINGSBRIDGE ARMORY REDEVELOPMENT

This week, Senator Rivera had the opportunity to testify at the City Council Subcommittee on Landmarks, Public Sitings, and Dispositions regarding the Kingsbridge Armory Redevelopment Project. As we near the end of the Uniform Land Use Review Procedure (ULURP) process, the aspirations, needs, and concerns of our community must be central to the project’s priorities and approval:

"I support the proposed project to transform the Kingsbridge Armory. That support is contingent on the developer delivering an even stronger Community Benefits Agreement than the last, which set the standard with local hiring, union jobs, sustainability, community space, a community benefits fund, and community governance. I am very encouraged by the Memorandum of Understanding that the Northwest Bronx Community and Clergy Coalition won that outlines their involvement in the project. 

"After decades of neglect and costly site repairs, the NYC Economic Development Corporation (EDC) must ensure this redevelopment truly benefits our borough. I want to thank Councilmember Pierina Sanchez for her staunch advocacy for our community," said Senator Rivera.

Last weekend, Senator Rivera joined Riverdale neighbors to voice their support for Dylan Lopez Contreras. Dylan is a high school student from Ellis Preparatory Academy, who was arrested by ICE in May and just had his asylum application denied.

"The Trump administration is unfairly targeting people like Dylan who came to our country looking for a safe place to live. Let’s continue to raise our voices so that Dylan is given the opportunity to contribute to our community as he has always wanted to," said Senator Rivera.

If you are able to, click here to donate to a GoFundMe created to support his family during this trying time.

Last weekend, Senator Rivera was honored to celebrate Yemeni culture and community at the First Yemeni Book Fair in Little Yemen. This was an amazing opportunity to learn more about the richness of Yemeni culture through a variety of artistic expressions.

Thank you Mr. Zaid Nagi for your warm welcome!

This week, Senator Rivera attended the 49th Precinct Community Council meeting. The Senator shared updates on his work in the community and highlighted recent and upcoming events. During the meeting, the Board introduced the new Commanding Officer, Captain Julieann Stapleton, as well as members of the newly formed Q-Team

Senator Rivera presented a well-deserved certificate of recognition to PO Teresa Tartarone for her dedicated service to our community. Congratulations!

Last Sunday, Senator Rivera joined the Somos Community Care Fest at Hostos College. The event featured health and wellness screenings, community resources, as well as giveaways and raffles. Thank you, Dr. Ramon Tallaj, for your partnership and innovative vision that recognizes that being healthy requires more than just healthcare. Thank you!

Last weekend, Senator Rivera spoke with Laura Coates on CNN about recent immigration actions taken by the Trump administration.

"The Trump administration pulled the bait and switch on the American people. ICE agents are not just being tasked to target violent criminals but instead they are enforcing racial discrimination, warrantless arrests and excessive use of force like we saw in the case of the young mother assaulted by an ICE agent at 26 Federal Plaza. Make no mistake — these ruthless tactics are being used to instill fear in our communities and it is on us to push back. We will continue to raise our voice loudly against the lawlessness and abuse of power displayed by ICE and demand that everyone be held accountable under the law," said Senator Rivera.

Click here to watch the full interview.

SATURDAY 10/18: JOIN SENATOR RIVERA'S 2ND ANNUAL ENVIRONMENTAL JUSTICE FAIR!