NYC Gazette

HONORING THE LIFE AND LEGACY OF HARRY BELAFONTE

WASHINGTON, DC –  On May 1, 2023, Representative Adriano Espaillat (NY-13) spoke on the floor of the United States House of Representatives to honor the life and legacy of Harry Belafonte:

Watch video of Rep. Espaillat's floor speech. The following are remarks by Rep. Espaillat, as prepared for delivery:

"Harry Belafonte was a lifelong public servant and civil rights advocate who has selflessly used the power of his voice to entertain us through song as well as to build awareness and bring attention to numerous social and political causes for vulnerable communities at home and around the world.  

"He is a hit maker and a change maker. From Hollywood to New York City, he broke barriers. His efforts helped propel the civil rights movement and urge for justice.

"Harry Belafonte was an entertainer, an ambassador for humanity, and an advocate for goodwill for all mankind. He has truly set a standard that we should each strive for in our abilities to create change and bring about good throughout our society.

"An alumni of George Washington High School in my district, Harry Belafonte was a Harlem treasure, an ambassador for humanity and advocate for goodwill to all humankind. Today, I honor his life, his legacy, and the contributions he made to the global community.

"Thank you, and I yield back."