June 15, 2023, 7:00 pm
Subotnick Center; Brooklyn Law School and via Zoom
Ilyssa Meyer, President of IND, welcomed those in attendance in person and on Zoom,
A motion to approve a letter in support of a proposal to have a cultural destination in downtown Brooklyn that honors the area’s abolitionist history and the women who fought against slavery with a “Sisters in Freedom” monument at Abolition Place (previously Willoughby Square Park) was unanimously approved.
State Senator Andrew Goundardes gave a report on the newly passed budget, including expansion of child care credits, closing of the MTA budget gap, increased bus service, and increased CUNY funding. Some additional issues are still to be addressed and unfortunately, there has been no meaningful action taken on the housing crisis.
Judicial Candidate Linda Wilson expressed her thanks to the IND membership for their support of her campaign.
Marta Schaaf representing BKForge presented a report on her organization’s efforts on behalf of reproductive freedom and equity. She advocated and expressed support for the NYS Shield Law which would protect medical professionals in New York. She also discussed the Hospital Transparency Bill and warned against Crisis Pregnancy Centers which engage in highly deceptive practices.
Assembly Member Jo Anne Simon provided a report and expressed her hope that a lockdown drill bill would pass next week.
State Senator Zellnor Myrie expressed his support for an amendment to the State constitution that would eliminate enforced labor for incarcerated people. He also expressed support for the Clean Slate Act and for campaign finance reform.
Corresponding Secretary Seamus Campbell reminded members of the possibility of same-day voter registration.