That’s why we encourage social distancing. Social distancing can be difficult to put into practice. New Yorkers are used to spending and enjoying a lot of time close to other people. Social distancing can be inconvenient and uncomfortable, but it is scientifically proven to help stop this virus.

Two weeks ago, I learned something I never knew about my own family’s history. My father was a Buffalo Soldier! I have a picture of him in his uniform — he enlisted when he was 18, younger than our son Dante is now.

He served briefly in the segregated 9th Calvary Regiment in North Africa during World War II. I can’t imagine how he must have felt, heading overseas to fight for a country that didn’t respect and believe in him.

Our past, and our present, are filled with so many hidden truths and harsh realities. But they are also brimming with stories of people who overcame incredible odds, who fought for a better life for themselves, their families and their communities.

Every year I look forward to joining faith leaders from around New York City for our Interfaith Breakfast. This gathering gives me hope.

For decades, BAM has provided space for us to reflect on what Dr. King’s legacy means for us today. And there is still so much more to learn from the past—not just our collective experiences, but our individual histories too.

Our past and our present are filled with so many hidden truths, cruel truths and harsh realities—they are also brimming with stories of people who overcame incredible odds and who fought for a better life for themselves, their families and their communities.

As we celebrate Dr. Martin Luther King, I’m remembering Rep. Conyers, who fought valiantly for this holiday.

Where are the women who are discriminated against, abused, paid less or not paid at all?  They have have taken to the streets, speaking louder and organizing!

More women than ever are leading our nation, and that’s because they rally and raise their voices for ourselves and each other. There is power in all of us. Dr. King called it “the ability to achieve purpose.” We must keep growing, keep building, keep leading — TOGETHER.

In New York City, we can’t stand by in silence when we see people hurting.

Let’s celebrate Zora!

Last year around this time, I read Barracoon, the story of Cudjo Lewis, brought to the US enslaved, fifty years after the slave trade was outlawed. Her work, her persistence in telling the stories of people not seen is an invaluable contribution to history and culture.

In recent weeks, horrifying anti-Semitic attacks have sent waves of fear and pain across the city. This morning Chancellor Carranza and I visited teachers and 10th grade students at Franklin Delano Roosevelt High School to talk about how we can make diversity our greatest strength.

Every community has experienced hate of some kind, and it's time to stand in solidarity with our Jewish brothers and sisters. It's up to all of us to reject this violence, and to stop it from growing in every one of our schools and neighborhoods.