Political Pioneers Honoring Local Trailblazers and Celebrating Progress

“We’re celebrating Women’s History Month by honoring our past trailblazers and recognizing the women of today shattering glass ceilings, inspiring others and working hard to put our community on a better path,” said Bichotte Hermelyn a fellow barrier-breaker, the first woman leader of the Brooklyn Democratic Party and first Haitian American state legislator from NYC.

The pioneering spirit was palpable with plenty of women political trailblazers in tow, including Attorney General Tish James, the first state-wide elected woman of color and Attorney General of New York, delivering a virtual speech; Congresswoman Yvette D. Clarke, the first Jamaican American Vice Chair of the Congressional Black Caucus; and the daughter of Dr. Una Clarke, who was the first Caribbean elected to the New York City legislature.

Also speaking at the event were Council Members Farah N. Louis and Rita Joseph, who are proudly prominent members of a woman-majority New York City Council with the most diversity in history. 

From Arts to Entrepreneurship: Fearless Leaders Across Arenas

Spotlighted were “fearless leaders in so many important fields, from arts and entertainment to environmental activism, entrepreneurship and healthcare to more, using their activism and skills to build a fairer and more just community,” said Attorney General Letitia James.

“There will never be enough ways to thank these women indelibly impacting our community in vital arenas, but these Women of Distinction Awards are part of how we can show our appreciation,” Bichotte Hermelyn added.

‘Incredible Achievements Inspiring a Generation to Come’

The event, led by the Mistress of Ceremony Ella Fredrick, a “lifelong community advocate and fearless leader of our youth,” as lauded by AG Tish James, introduced a slate of speakers who regaled in the honorees’ achievements while also reflecting on progress made — and still to come — for women through leadership.

Congresswoman Yvette D. Clarke delivered a virtual speech stating, “Our work must continue. Women are still underrepresented in elected office and in the executive suites of our corporation, while wage discrimination persists.”

The “Women being honored today have broken glass ceilings and broken barriers … and inspired countless women to pursue their dreams and aspirations,” said Councilmember Rita Joseph, who echoed that there is still progress to be made for women’s equity.

Attorney General Letitia James also spoke on the importance of the Women of Distinctions’ work “inspiring the next generation of pivotal change for women and girls everywhere.”

Special Presenter Dr. Mojubaolu O. Okome, a Political Science Professor of the CUNY Haitian Studies Institute at the venue’s wonderful institution, also presented on the importance of recognizing past women leaders and building on their legacy. 

Dr. Okome gave an illuminating and inspiring presentation on Ella Josephine Baker, the “Militant Mother Of The Civil Rights Movement,” whose civil rights work as the highest-ranking woman in the NAACP helped breed today’s Black Lives Matter movement. “What are you doing to foster equality? At the very least, be like Ella!” said the prominent professor.

Concluding the annual awards ceremony, Bichotte Hermelyn said, “During Women’s History Month — and all year long — we’re not only celebrating these terrific women, but we’re also praising all the women in our community making a positive difference, many of whom are in this audience.

So congratulations to this year’s Women of Distinction Honorees and every Sheroe making a positive difference!”