New York State Black, Puerto Rican, Hispanic, & Asian Legislative Caucus Host Second Annual Legend of the Caucus Award Ceremony

MONTICELLO, NY - Members of the New York State Black, Puerto Rican, Hispanic, and Asian Legislative Caucus (BPHA Caucus) came together to host the Second Annual "Legend of the Caucus" Award Ceremony. This prestigious accolade was introduced by Chair Assemblywoman Michaelle Solages (D-Elmont) in 2023 to serve as a tribute for the individuals who have made exceptional contributions to the mission, goals, and overall trajectory of the BPHA Caucus.

Since its inception, the BPHA Caucus has been a catalyst for positive changes in marginalized communities across the state. Many former members have left behind a lasting legacy and have inspired generations of lawmakers of color to truly make an impact.  This award represents a collective appreciation for their commitment to public service and their dedication to the betterment of New York’s Black, Latino, and Asian communities. The 2024 "Legend of the Caucus" Award was presented to two former Assemblymembers, The Honorable Annette Robinson and The Honorable Rubén Díaz Jr..

Annette M. Robinson has spent her life as a dedicated public servant and advocate for the communities of Brooklyn, especially Bedford-Stuyvesant, Crown Heights, and Bushwick. Born in Harlem and raised in Bedford-Stuyvesant, she was deeply involved in her church and community from an early age. With a B.S. and M.S. from Southern New Hampshire University, Robinson’s passion for change propelled her to serve on the Community School Board District 16 in 1977. Her career quickly advanced, working with NYC Comptroller Harrison J. Goldin and U.S. Congressman Major R. Owens before being elected to the New York City Council in 1991. In 2002, Robinson was elected to the New York State Assembly, where she represented the 56th District with determination for 14 years. As a member of the BPHA Caucus, she championed policies that uplifted underserved communities. 

Rubén Díaz Jr. is a long-standing public servant whose leadership has been pivotal in shaping the Bronx and the greater New York City area. From 2009 to 2021, he served as the 13th Borough President of the Bronx, where he focused on improving housing conditions, expanding educational opportunities, and driving economic development. Díaz’s career has been defined by his commitment to uplifting the Bronx through initiatives that prioritize educational equity, environmental protection, and economic growth. His tenure as Borough President saw transformative projects that enhanced the quality of life for Bronx residents, cementing his reputation as a passionate advocate for his community. Even after two decades of public service, Rubén Díaz Jr.. remains a powerful voice for the Bronx and a beacon of leadership for future generations of lawmakers.

"It is an absolute honor to present our 'Legend of the Caucus' Award to two trailblazers who have lent to the rich and dynamic history of our Caucus. There have been many spectacular men and women who have answered the call of public service in our Legislature, and it is important for our body to acknowledge those individuals for being instrumental in advancing the Caucus' mission for the empowerment and representation of marginalized voices. We extend our heartfelt gratitude to our newly inducted Legend of the Caucus awardees, Anette Robinson and Rubén Díaz Jr., for joining us and graciously accepting this award." said Assemblywoman Michaelle C. Solages, BPHA Caucus Chair.

“I would like to thank the Chair as well as all of the Caucus members. As we come here to celebrate this occasion, it is with a humble heart that I acknowledge and receive this award for the people that I have represented and for the people in the State of New York. There is power in understanding the past and acknowledging the impact of those who came before you. This award serves as a reminder of the profound transformation this Caucus has undergone over the past few decades. The Caucus has always had the responsibility to ensure that communities of color are at the forefront of policy making, and I am happy to see this group of legislators continue to carry that torch from generation to generation. Continue to prioritize the needs of the families and the less fortunate across the state, and this legislative body will always be able to make a difference. When we come together as people of service, we see the change we want to see.” Said the Honorable Annette Robinson.

“ I am proud to accept this award and would like to thank the Chair as well every member of this body currently serving in the Legislature for this prestigious recognition. The work that members of this Caucus can get done together is truly admirable, because it creates a sense of collegiality that is often lost in spaces such as this. During your political careers, Each member of this Caucus will be faced with a very important moment, and I am confident that all of you will be able to rise to such an occasion. This moment that you will face may come from tragedy, like when I met with the family of Amadou Diallo after he was shot by police. It is moments like these that separate this Caucus from the likes of other policymakers, because you all understand just how important your voices are in making your communities heard, seen, and represented by people who empathize with their woes. By bestowing  the lawmakers of New York’s past with such an award, the Caucus is ensuring that history is not forgotten and, through this reflection, will continue to create legislation for the people without a voice.” Said the Honorable Rubén Díaz Jr..