06/19/2026
On Juneteenth, we celebrate the day when news of emancipation finally reached enslaved Black Americans in Galveston, Texas, more than two years after the Emancipation Proclamation was issued. To honor the strength and sacrifices of those who came before us, you can learn more about Juneteenth, participate in community events, or reflect on the country’s history of racism and how we can work towards a more equitable and just society.
06/17/2026
My office had a wonderful time offering resources to community members at the 6th Annual Pittsford PRIDE Festival. At a time when LGBTQ+ communities across the country are facing increasing attacks, events like this send a powerful message that everyone deserves to be seen, valued, and supported. Thank you to Pittsford CommUNITY and all the volunteers, performers, vendors, and attendees who helped create such a welcoming and affirming space. 🏳️🌈
06/15/2026
Last week, I was proud to induct Martin Pedraza into the 2026 New York State Senate Veterans Hall of Fame. Martin’s life is a powerful example of service, from his time serving our country during the Vietnam War to his decades of leadership and mentorship here in Rochester.
It was especially meaningful to celebrate him alongside the dedication of the First Street Children’s Garden in his honor, recognizing 15 years of teaching young people how to grow healthy food and give back to their community.
Thank you, Martin, for your service, your leadership, and your unwavering commitment to Rochester.
06/11/2026
I’m proud to share that my bill, S9602, has now been signed into law by Governor Kathy Hochul. This new law extends the licensure and registration period for child care programs from four to six years, helping reduce administrative burdens and compliance costs for providers while supporting greater access to affordable, quality child care for families across New York.
06/09/2026
Today, I was proud to join my partners in government as we highlighted the importance of investing in care, compassion, and community.
As Chair of the Senate Mental Health Committee, I’m grateful to Governor Hochul for her continued partnership in advancing Daniel’s Law and building a mental health crisis response system that keeps New Yorkers safe. Here in Rochester, we continue to honor Daniel Prude’s memory by working to ensure no family experiences a tragedy like his again. For the second year in a row, we secured $8 million for Daniel’s Law pilots.
We also highlighted continued investments in maternal health, including additional funding to expand access to doulas for Medicaid recipients across New York State. At a time when Black mothers continue to face unacceptable disparities in care and outcomes, these investments are more important than ever.
Thank you to Governor Hochul for her continued partnership and commitment to supporting New Yorkers through meaningful investments.
06/08/2026
Today, the Rochester Delegation came together to share how this year’s state budget is delivering real results for Monroe County.
From investments in education, healthcare, and public safety to measures that lower costs and strengthen protections for working families, we fought to ensure Rochester’s priorities were reflected in this budget.
Proud to stand alongside my colleagues as we continue working to build healthier, safer, and more equitable communities for our residents.
06/07/2026
I had a great time at SEAC’s Ladybug Day! 🐞
SEAC does incredible work uplifting our children and families, confronting poverty, and equitably revitalizing our communities. I was especially excited to see the mobile tool shed in action, funded through a grant secured by our office to help expand access to tools throughout the community.
Thank you to everyone who helped make this joyful event possible!
06/06/2026
Canal Days has always held a special place in my heart. It was wonderful to be back in the Village of Fairport today, celebrating this incredible tradition and seeing firsthand the exciting projects underway throughout the village. Events like Canal Days are what give character and vibrancy to our communities, and I’m grateful to everyone who worked so hard to make it possible once again.