Adriano Espaillat, U.S. Congressman representing New York’s 13th district since 2017, announced his participation in an event celebrating Holcombe Rucker Park’s official recognition as a national commemorative site and expressed gratitude to organizations supporting independent living for disabled New Yorkers in a series of tweets posted on September 5, 2025.
In his first tweet, Espaillat invited the public to join him at the ceremony: “This Sunday, I will be joining absolute LEGENDS as we celebrate the official recognition of Holcombe Rucker Park as a national commemorative site. Join us at 1:00pm on Sunday, September 7th at Rucker Park (155th St and 8th Ave in Harlem)” (September 5, 2025).
He also acknowledged the efforts of advocacy groups focused on disability rights. In a subsequent post, he wrote: “Thank you to the NY State Independent Living Council for your efforts to bolster the Harlem Independent Living center. Your work ensures disabled New Yorkers can live full and independent lives, helping them and their families thrive.” (September 5, 2025).
Espaillat reiterated this message in Spanish: “Gracias al Consejo de Vida Independiente del Estado de Nueva York por su labor para fortalecer el Centro de Vida Independiente de Harlem. Su labor garantiza que las personas con discapacidad de Nueva York puedan vivir una vida plena e independiente, ayudándolas a ellas y a sus” (September 5, 2025).
Espaillat has represented New York’s 13th District in Congress since succeeding Charles Rangel in 2017. Prior to his current role, he served in both the New York State Assembly from 1997 to 2010 and the State Senate from 2011 to 2016. Born in Santiago, Dominican Republic in 1954 and now residing in Manhattan, Espaillat graduated from Queens College of City University of New York with a BA in 1978.
