Staten Island honors Black Angels nurses with city hall display celebrating their legacy

During the New York City Council's Stated Meeting on December 19, 2024, significant discussions highlighted the city's commitment to honoring its history and addressing pressing community needs.

One of the most impactful moments came from Council Member Hanks, who expressed pride in the display at City Hall honoring the Black Angels, a group of Black nurses who made significant contributions to healthcare by caring for patients and conducting clinical trials that cured tuberculosis at Staten Island's Sea View Hospital. This display is part of the Staten Island Museum's exhibition, "Taking Care: The Black Angels of Sea View Hospital," which celebrates the legacy of these trailblazing women. Hanks emphasized the importance of recognizing the rich Black history in Staten Island and the contributions of the Black community to New York City.

In another key discussion, Council Member Brewer advocated for Resolution 227, which calls for a renewed farm bill to increase funding for food aid. Brewer highlighted the growing issue of food insecurity in New York, noting that cuts to food security programs would exacerbate the need for emergency food assistance. The last farm bill, which expired in September, left many farmers in a precarious position. Brewer thanked various stakeholders for their efforts in addressing hunger and emphasized the need for a comprehensive solution to support families in need.

Additionally, Council Member Shulman introduced Intro 1111, aimed at changing the frequency with which the Campaign Finance Board recalculates contribution and expenditure limits. This change seeks to ensure equity in council elections, particularly in years when redistricting occurs due to the U.S. census. Shulman thanked Speaker Adams and Chair Ressler for their support in this initiative.

The meeting underscored the City Council's ongoing efforts to address historical recognition and current community challenges, reinforcing the importance of these discussions in shaping a more equitable and supportive environment for all New Yorkers. As the council moves forward, these initiatives reflect a commitment to both honoring the past and addressing the pressing needs of the present.