Hi team, 

This is Yvette D. Clarke, the only Black woman representing New York in Congress as well as the First Vice Chair of the Congressional Black Caucus. I’m reaching out to share some reflections as Black History Month comes to an end. 

This year, my friend Hakeem Jeffries made history as the first Black lawmaker to lead a party in Congress. We’ve come so far in our shared fight for equality, and I’m so proud to call Hakeem a friend. Both of us stand on the shoulders of those who came before us. 

My mother, former New York City Council Member Dr. Una S. T. Clarke, has been an inspiration to me my entire life. It has been an honor to also follow in the footsteps of other trailblazing Brooklynites in Congress, like Congresswoman Shirley Chisholm and Congressman Major Owens, as I continue to fight to bring affordable housing and high-paying jobs to our community.

As I reflect on this month, though, I’m also focused on what we can do to uplift the next generation. Hakeem and I are dedicated to fighting racist voter suppression, supporting police accountability to ensure that our communities and the people that they are sworn to protect remain safe, uplifting Black leaders to run and win in their communities, and so much more. 

That’s why before both of our end-of-month fundraising deadlines, I’m asking you to invest in the future of Black excellence here in New York and beyond by splitting a $20 donation between both our re-election campaigns.

With your help, we can continue the work we’re doing representing New York, giving voice to the voiceless and continuing the work to create a truly equitable country. 

Thank you, 

– Yvette D. Clarke