Yvette Clarke RSS Articles

U.S. Rep. Yvette D. Clarke’s Statement on President Barack Obama’s Support of Same Sex Marriage

Wed, 09 May 2012 04:00:00 GMT

Today, Congresswoman Yvette D. Clarke released the following statement after President Barack Obama, in an interview with ABC News reporter Robin Roberts, stated that he personally thinks that ‘same sex couples should be able to get married’:

“I applaud President Obama for endorsing marriage equality. New York State enacted marriage equality in 2011, and I am proud that all couples have the right to marry in my home state of New York.”

“There are many same-sex couples across this nation, who make enormous contributions to our society. However, they do not have the legal right to visit their partners in the hospital, share insurance policies, obtain child support, sponsor each other for permanent residency, or qualify for spousal benefits such as retirement pensions or Social Security. Same-sex couples must not be treated as second class citizens. They must be afforded the same rights as every American, irrespective of their sexual orientation, which is why I am a proud co-sponsor of H.R. 1116, the Respect for Marriage Act. This legislation would repeal the Defense of Marriage Act (DOMA), which prohibits same-sex marriages. The repeal of DOMA would put an end to what amounts to state sanctioned discrimination against these couples.”

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U.S. Rep. Yvette D. Clarke Denounces Racist Remarks written in N.Y. Post Column

Mon, 07 May 2012 04:00:00 GMT

Today, U.S. Representative Yvette D. Clarke released the following statement denouncing a column written by columnist Phil Mushnick in last Friday’s New York Post.  The column uses racist and sexist terminology to register the columnist’s distaste for Rap Mogul Jay-Z, who is part owner of the New York Nets.

“It is truly despicable and unfortunate that this column was published with such offensive, sexist and racially charged language to express Mr. Mushnick's opinion of Jay- Z. This offensive language needlessly reinforces stereotypes and is a poor reflection of who we are as New Yorkers. What is even more disheartening is that the New York Post thought that it was acceptable to publish this column in the first place.

“New York City has a wonderful mosaic of people who have come from different ethnic groups, races, cultures, and religious traditions. It is this unique dynamic that makes our city and by extension our nation, so great. This column does a disservice to its readers by allowing such hurtful and mean-spirited language to be published. I join with all people of good will in denouncing this column. We owe it to the next generation to do much better.”

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Rep. Yvette D. Clarke says, “Tell Senate to Vote ‘NO’ on CISPA”

Tue, 01 May 2012 04:00:00 GMT

Today Congresswoman Yvette D. Clarke released the following statement calling on constituents in the 11^th Congressional District of New York add their voices to the conversation about the Cyber Intelligence Sharing and Protection Act (CISPA).

“On Thursday April, 26, 2012, I voted against the ‘Cyber Intelligence Sharing and Protection Act’ (CISPA). As the Ranking Member on the House Homeland Security Subcommittee for Cybersecurity, Infrastructure Protection, and Security Technologies, I am aware of the threat that cyber attacks pose to the United States, and I am fully committed to preventing these threats. But I believe this bill uses an excessively broad definition of “cybersecurity” that does not adequately limit the collection, interception, and sharing of personal information.”

“Without proper safeguards it becomes an assault on privacy protections, allowing the intelligence community unrestrained access to the personal information of American citizens. I received numerous calls from my constituents who advised me to vote against this piece of legislation. I call on all the residents I represent as well as people of good will across the nation to urge the Senate to vote against this bill. Call, email, Facebook message, and tweet U.S. Senators to let them know that you do not want CISPA enacted. Democracy cannot be a spectator sport. Your voices are needed in this conversation,” concluded Congresswoman Yvette D. Clarke.

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Rep. Yvette D. Clarke Denounces Potential Threats Regarding Tea Party Statement

Thu, 26 Apr 2012 04:00:00 GMT

Today, Congresswoman Yvette D. Clarke’s congressional office and district office received many telephone calls, some of which were potentially threatening, about her comments on the Tea Party and the hostile political environment in Washington, DC. As a result, Capitol Police were notified.

“While I respect the views of the American people, our office takes any threat seriously. We don’t underestimate any potential threat,” stated Congresswoman Yvette D. Clarke.

Recently, the Blaze.com posted up a clip of Congresswoman Clarke addressing the Prospect Heights Democrats for Reform in April 2012 about the hostile political climate in Washington, DC. The edited sections were taken out of context and used to incite a negative response to Congresswoman Clarke.

“Unfortunately these actions demonstrate the volatile political environment of 2012. Within my remarks, I was referring to the effectiveness of how the Tea Party organized and made their voices heard. I also discussed how some members of the Tea Party spat on certain members of congress and made racial and bigoted remarks. These actions were indeed seen as ‘crazy’ to many people and they showed the ‘ugliest side of the United States of America.’ While I do not believe all Tea Party members subscribe to the thinking that resulted in these incidents, the bad actions of a few affected the reputation of the organization,” added U.S. Rep. Yvette D. Clarke.

“Know that I find it extremely disappointing that my words were edited and removed from context. I stand by my statement and I will not be intimidated by those who use fear to make their point known. While I appreciate the calls from individuals who respectfully disagree with my remarks, we all have a responsibility to ensure that we change the dangerous discourse that can come from this hostile political environment,” concluded Congresswoman Clarke.

Click on Part 1, Part 2 and Part 3 to access Rep. Clarke remarks made at the Prospect Heights Democrats for Reform meeting.

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Rep. Yvette D. Clarke Denounces Arizona Immigration Law; Urges Federal Action if Upheld in Court

Wed, 25 Apr 2012 04:00:00 GMT

Today, Congresswoman Yvette D. Clarke voiced her vehement opposition of the Arizona immigration enforcement law (SB 1070) that will be addressed in the Supreme Court:

“The great civil rights leader Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. once said, ‘injustice anywhere is a threat to justice everywhere.’ The immigration enforcement law enacted in Arizona is indeed a threat to justice, not only locally but across our nation, and it would be a grave mistake if the Supreme Court did not move to strike down this law,” stated Rep. Clarke.

Law enforcement authorities are required “under reasonable suspicion” to determine the immigration status of anyone who they suspect are illegal immigrants. The measure caused considerable controversy from its onset, and ultimately prompted the Obama Administration to take it to court. The law, if struck down by the Supreme Court, could represent a watershed moment in the continuing fight for comprehensive immigration reform.

“This law in Arizona is a step backwards and does not address our antiquated immigration system; an issue that must be resolved on the federal level. It is the unfortunate response to the federal government’s lack of action on our nation’s obligation to the millions of families that have built this nation,” said Rep. Clarke.

“Unfortunately, Arizona demonstrates why this issue can be counterproductive for our nation when handled at the state level. Our national security is at stake; our moral standing in the world depends on it; and the American people, many of whom are first and second generation immigrants, have already demanded that we fix the system,” she continued.

“As a Brooklyn native, whose roots are firmly planted in my Jamaican heritage, and a Representative for one of the largest populations of first and second generation immigrants, I know firsthand the dire need for comprehensive immigration reform. The truth of the matter is that this is not just a Hispanic issue and it is not just a border security issue, it is an American issue. I urge Congress to take a fresh look at the antiquated policies and bureaucratic backlogs that continue to tear families apart and devastate our communities,” concluded Rep. Yvette Clarke.

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TIME Magazine Top 100 Influential People in the World

Wed, 18 Apr 2012 04:00:00 GMT

TIME 100: The List

Portia Simpson Miller

Prime Minister of Jamaica

By Yvette D. Clarke Wednesday, Apr. 18, 2012

Christopher Morris / VII for TIME

Prime Minister Portia Simpson Miller — or Sister P, as I affectionately call her — is the embodiment of perseverance and strength. She will have a profound impact as she strives to be a transformational figure in Jamaica.

Portia, 66, started her career as a public servant in local government in 1974. Two years later she was elected to the Jamaican Parliament.

In 2006 she made history, becoming the first woman to be elected Prime Minister of Jamaica. She was re-elected in December 2011. While she has worked for many years as a public servant representing all Jamaicans, there is a great sense that her leadership will expand far beyond her island nation. In addition to her call this year to break with the British monarchy and make the island a republic, Portia is promoting full civil rights for gays and lesbians, a courageous move in a country with a violent history of homophobia.

I can say from personal experience that her presence is already inspiring a new generation of women, particularly from the Caribbean diaspora, to get involved in public service and to make a difference. Sister P is a woman to watch.

Clarke is a Congresswoman for New York's 11th District

Read more: http://www.time.com/time/specials/packages/article/0,28804,2111975_2111976_2111996,00.html #ixzz1sPbZnQym

Congressman Edolphus “Ed” Towns and Congresswoman Yvette D. Clarke Host Academy Night

Wed, 18 Apr 2012 04:00:00 GMT

On Monday, April 23, 2012, Congressman Edolphus “Ed” Towns (NY-10) and Congresswoman Yvette D. Clarke (NY-11) will host Academy Night at St. Francis College. There, representatives from the United States Military, Naval, Air Force, Merchant Marine, and Coast Guard academies will be in attendance to share information about the pathways to officership in the profession of arms and answer questions. Members of Congress are responsible for nominating qualified candidates for appointment to these academies with the exception of the United States Coast Guard Academy. High school students, parents and educators are encouraged to attend this educational forum.

Who: Congressman Edolphus “Ed” Towns (NY-10)

Congresswoman Yvette D. Clarke (NY-11)

What: Academy Night

When: Monday, April 23, 2012 at 6:00 PM EST – 9:00 PM EST

Where: St. Francis College, Founders Hall

182 Remsen Street (between Court and Clinton Streets)

Brooklyn, NY 11201

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Rep. Yvette D. Clarke’s Statement on Anti-Semitic Vandalism in Sheepshead Bay

Wed, 18 Apr 2012 04:00:00 GMT

Today, Congresswoman Yvette D. Clarke released the following statement regarding Anti-Semitic images that appeared on the Avenue Z Jewish Center in Sheepshead Bay:

“I am appalled to learn about the Anti-Semitic images that appeared at the Avenue Z Jewish Center in Sheepshead Bay. Avenue Z Jewish Center has been an important part of the Brooklyn community for decades – the attack constitutes an attack on our entire community.

“This crime demonstrates that we as a community must maintain our posture against hatred of any kind. We cannot condone such terrible acts of violence and we must work with each other to protect the shared value of that diversity brings in our community.

“This evening, we start the annual remembrance of Holocaust Memorial Day. We cannot forget the millions of people who were killed in the pursuit of a racist ideology. For this Holocaust Memorial Day, part of the National Days of Remembrance, the United States Holocaust Memorial Museum designated “Choosing to Act: Stories of Rescue” as its theme.

“Here in Brooklyn, we must choose to act. We must choose to celebrate our diversity. We must choose to condemn hatred in our community and elsewhere.

“I applaud New York State Assemblyman Steven Cymbrowitz and New York City Council Member Michael Nelson for encouraging anyone with information to contact the New York City Police Department and I join these elected officials in condemning such heinous acts of hatred.”

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Rep. Yvette D. Clarke’s Statement on Congressman Ed Towns Retiring from Congress

Tue, 17 Apr 2012 04:00:00 GMT

Today, Congresswoman Yvette D. Clarke released the following statement after reports indicated that Congressman Edolphus “Ed” Towns has decided not to seek re-election and will retire at the end of the 112th session of Congress:

“Congressman Ed Towns has served the 10^th Congressional District of New York for fifteen terms, and has done so with distinction. For nearly three decades, he has fought for New Yorkers and all Americans to have access to affordable healthcare, employment opportunities, and has been a champion for the people he represents. He rose through the ranks of Congress to “hold the gavel" as Chair of the House Committee on Oversight and Government Reform.

“It is an honor to serve with him in the New York City delegation, and as a colleague, we frequently collaborated as advocates for the communities of Central Brooklyn. His fortitude, perseverance, and tireless fight for justice will serve as a firm foundation for the public servants who will succeed him. I'm grateful for the opportunity to have served with him, applaud him for his service and wish him all the best in his future endeavors.”

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Rep. Yvette D. Clarke’s Statement on Mayor Cory Booker Rescuing Neighbor from Burning House

Fri, 13 Apr 2012 04:00:00 GMT

Today, Congresswoman Yvette D. Clarke released the following statement recognizing Newark, New Jersey Mayor Cory Booker for rescuing a neighbor from a burning house:

“I would like to commend Mayor Cory Booker for his act of heroism on the evening of April 12^th. Upon returning home from work Mayor Booker noticed a nearby home on fire. After hearing the cries of a trapped woman Mayor Booker, ignoring the risk of personal injury, ran into the flaming building where he was able to rescue the woman. I pray for a speedy and full recovery for the woman who was rescued.

“Mayor Booker’s action is an example of a consummate professional and truly dedicated public servant, who does not check his commitment to his neighbors at the office, but is rather willing to put his life on the line with this demonstrative selflessness that has defined Mayor Booker’s career. Mayor Booker’s dedication to his community is admirable, and I look forward to his continued service in making his city and by extension, our nation a better place.”

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