It was so amazing to celebrate the West Indian American Day Carnival in person for the first time since 2019 this past week! As one of the Grand Marshals, I am proud to have participated in the return of the largest Caribbean cultural event in the United States and Canada.

I saw so many friends and colleagues at this year’s Carnival, spoke with so many local supporters, all while celebrating our shared Caribbean heritage.

Our community is stronger than ever, and it was an incredible sight to see. There was so much energy from the diversity of culture and community. It truly showed how much the Caribbean has brought to New York and our entire country.

I even got to see my good friend and colleague, Yvette Clarke – someone I am proud to have worked alongside on the issues that matter most to our communities. From advocating for economic opportunities to lowering the costs of housing and health care, to supporting our Caribbean region we have both fought side by side.

Together in the House Caribbean Caucus, we amplify the voices of the Caribbean diaspora and the values we share. Help keep both of us in Washington where we belong by making a split donation to both of our campaigns!

Together, we’re standing up against an anti-immigrant GOP and pushing the Biden administration to do more to ensure immigrants seeking refuge in the U.S. are welcome with open arms, and that Americans in the territories are treated equally.

Yvette and I are fighting to reform systems that have for too long kept our communities down from lack of access to economic opportunities to housing and health care policy.

I’m very proud of the work we have accomplished together and proud to be a part of the communities we celebrated this week so full of energy, joy, and artistry.

I’m already looking forward to next year.

Stacey Plaskett