Delgado Delivers Remarks at Black History Month Celebration in Ellenville

ELLENVILLE, NY — This afternoon, U.S. Representative Antonio Delgado (NY-19) joined students, teachers, administrators, and local officials in the Ellenville High School Library for their Black History Month workshop entitled, “Black American Greatness from 19th Century to 21st Century.” During today’s program, Rep. Delgado was recognized as the first African American Congressman from upstate New York as students learned about Black Americans who are recognized as the first to achieve in their field of expertise. Today’s program also honored Ulster County Legislator John Gavaris.

“I thank the Ellenville community for the opportunity to share my story today and celebrate the important work of programs like My Brother’s Keeper initiative that builds networks of mentors and support systems for our young people.” Delgado continued, “Ellenville schools are a model for success in implementing My Brother’s Keeper programming to teach students about educational opportunities and vocational training in their community. I thoroughly enjoyed meeting students today and look forward to seeing all they will accomplish in the future.”

Delgado has prioritized hearing from students across NY-19, and is spending this week focused on visiting upstate workforce development programs as part of his efforts to ensure we’re building a workforce ready to fill the jobs of tomorrow. As part of his work to expand access to education for young people in upstate, last year, Rep. Delgado introduced bipartisan legislation that strengthens FAFSA for working and non-traditional students and increases higher education opportunities, as well as the Young Farmer Success Act which would add farmers and ranchers to the Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program. Both of these bills were included in the College Affordability Act, a landmark bill that reauthorizes higher education programs.