Breaking The Glass Ceiling: New Brooklyn D.A. Kenneth Thompson reflects on the past, present and future
When Ken Thompson was elected Brooklyn district attorney on November 5, 2013, he not only resoundingly defeated 23-year incumbent Charles “Joe” Hynes, he also became the borough’s first African-American district attorney, “crash(ing) the glass ceiling,” according to now-Brooklyn Borough President Eric Adams, who did the same.
For Brooklyn D.A. Thompson, “Black History Month is to me a time of reflection and to celebrate the accomplishments and heritage of African American and Caribbean American people here. It’s important to celebrate the contributions of all the people in the country and I am always excited about making sure that every group has time to reflect on how they help make the neighborhood great.
“I’m honored to be the first African American district attorney,” Thompson added, “and I am honored to represent all the people of Brooklyn. I intend to be a role model for the youth who hear about my life story, see my accomplishments and see my determination to treat everyone fairly and equally, and keep everyone safe. I want them to consider becoming lawyers and prosecutors down the road.”