Rep. Nydia Velázquez, U.S. Congresswoman for New York’s 7th district, addressed a series of issues in recent social media posts, ranging from nonprofit funding in Puerto Rico to the humanitarian crisis in Gaza and a tragic shooting in Midtown Manhattan.
On July 28, 2025, Velázquez commented on the state of nonprofits in Puerto Rico: “In Puerto Rico, nonprofits have stepped in where the government hasn’t. But with 84% relying on federal funding, Trump’s cuts to critical grant programs are devastating. These groups are lifelines. Defunding them means defunding survival.”
Later that day, she addressed reports coming out of Gaza regarding widespread hunger: “Despite Netanyahu’s claim ‘there is no starvation,’ horrifying accounts on the ground make it clear: mass starvation has become a defining part of life in Gaza. The US must use all tools to surge aid, secure a permanent ceasefire, & stop this catastrophe.”
On July 29, Velázquez expressed condolences following a violent incident in Midtown Manhattan: “Heartbroken by the shooting in Midtown that has taken multiple lives, including an off-duty NYPD officer. My thoughts are with their families, and I’m praying for all the victims who were injured. Grateful to the NYPD for their quick response in such a terrifying moment.”
Velázquez has served as representative for New York’s 7th district since 1993 after succeeding Stephen Solarz and remains one of Congress’ longest-serving members from New York.1 Born in Yabucoa, Puerto Rico in 1953 and currently residing in Brooklyn,3 she is an alumna of the University of Puerto Rico at Río Piedras.4
