Brooklyn Borough President Antonio Reynoso on March 5 hosted “The Chisholm Effect," an event honoring the legacy of former Congresswoman Shirley Chisholm.
Held in partnership with the Brooklyn Alumnae Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc., the evening featured a panel discussion with former Congressman Ed Towns Jr. and former Assembly Member Annette Robinson, both of whom shared their personal experiences with Chisholm and reflected on her enduring impact on public service, according to a press release.
The panel, moderated by Deputy Borough President Reverend Kim Council, explored Chisholm’s influence on Black women in leadership and the broader political landscape. Towns and Robinson, both former legislators, spoke about their relationship with Chisholm and the lessons aspiring public servants can learn from her fearless advocacy.
“Congresswoman Shirley Chisholm was the definition of a trailblazer whose story exemplifies our borough, and our country, at its best. Her legacy is an inspiration for current and future generations of public servants, and we have a responsibility to ensure her memory is strong and alive in Brooklyn," said Reynoso.
Chisholm was initiated onto the Brooklyn Alumnae Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc on January 29th, 1969, according to Kenya Johnson, the president of the Brooklyn Alumnae Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta.
“Soror Chisholm's fearless nature had a strong dominoes effect on not only Black women, men and children, but on society,” she said.
Robinson credited Chisholm with paving the way for her own career in public service. “She showed me as a young Black woman that I could be a parent leader in Head Start, a member of the community school board, a state committee member, a City Council member, and a New York State Assembly member,” she said.
Elected officials, including House Democratic Leader Hakeem Jeffries and Council Member Chi Ossé, also paid tribute to Chisholm’s groundbreaking career.
“Congresswoman Shirley Chisholm was a trailblazer and a Brooklyn hero,” said Ossé. “Her legacy is one of strength, courage, and perseverance, and she continues to be an inspiration to people of all ages and backgrounds in Brooklyn and beyond."
BK Reader celebrates and elevates female leaders during Women's History Month this March.
