BALDWIN — The annual Nassau County Local Martin Luther King Jr. Luncheon, hosted by the local’s Civil Rights and Diversity, Equity, Inclusion Committee, brought together members and our partners in labor for an afternoon of honoring enduring legacies.
Exhibits and presentations honoring the women architects of the Civil Rights Movement, interpretive dances, speakers and a fun-filled raffle were accompanied by the recognition of four impactful activists and leaders. Local Civil Rights and Diversity, Equity, Inclusion Committee Chair Audrey Hadden played a major role in coordinating and hosting the event.
Nassau University Medical Center Local President Shakira Settles and Nassau County Legislator Olena Nicks were among those recognized at the luncheon, as well as the late Executive Assistant to the President Sharon Lovelady Hall.
Settles expressed her deep gratitude for her own family and labor family, stating that her journey from unit leader to local president has been made possible because of them and a commitment to service.
“Service to our members, service to our community, service to the legacy that was placed before me,” said Settles. “Leadership is not about power; it is about responsibility. It is about showing up, standing up, and speaking up. I believe in diversity, equity and inclusion not as slogans, but as a commitment. I believe our strength lies in our differences.”
Nicks expressed her “heartfelt honor to be able to accept this [recognition].”
“Being here reminds us of the profound legacy Dr. King left behind,” said Nicks. “A legacy of justice, equality, and unwavering support for the working class.”
Lovelady-Hall, who passed away on Feb. 27, was posthumously recognized for her renowned and enduring legacy, not only known by our membership, but by every organization she was a part of.
CSEA Labor Relations Specialist Les Eason, a founding member of the Long Island Coalition of Black Trade Unionists (CBTU) and a longtime CSEA member, accepted the award on behalf of his friend of more than 30 years.
“For me to accept this for Sharon, it’s emotional; it’s a great pleasure,” said Eason. “I want to say thank you. I am so proud to see this Martin Luther King Jr. Luncheon continue.”
State Sen. Siela A. Bynoe presented these leaders with proclamations from New York state, reading: “The great state is only as great as those individuals who preform exemplary service on behalf of their community.”
— Alexandra Whitbeck