This Indigenous Peoples’ Day, we honor the history, cultures, and enduring contributions of Indigenous Peoples. Their leadership, resilience, and deep connection to the land have shaped our communities and continue to guide the pursuit of a just and sustainable future. Today, and every day, we must recognize Indigenous voices, honor tribal sovereignty, and recommit ourselves to protecting Indigenous rights and heritage.

It was an honor speaking at the Buffalo International Film Festival, where 'Partners' highlighted the Buffalo Starbucks workers who launched an iconic nationwide movement for union representation in 2021. These workers stood up to one of the world’s largest and most recognizable corporations to demand a seat at the table. Their fight is a powerful reminder that workers’ rights are hard-won and must be protected. As a New York State Senator, I called on Starbucks to bargain in good faith, end retaliation against organizers, and respect workers’ right to organize. Now as your Congressman, I remain committed to standing with workers and defending the rights generations of labor leaders fought to secure.

October 11th marks the International Day of the Girl, a time when we reaffirm our commitment to girls’ rights, education, and equal opportunity worldwide. Empowering the next generation starts in our classrooms, in our communities, and in our hearts. By investing in public schools, strengthening mentorship programs, and expanding opportunities, we can ensure every girl has the resources to lead, succeed, and shape her future.

This dangerous and deranged president started a war of choice in Iran that he said would be over in days. Seven months later, diesel is over $6 a gallon, and families, farmers, and truckers across Western New York are paying for it. 
Now Trump is cutting a deal to buy Russian diesel, funding Putin's war against Ukraine. Adding insult to injury, he’s calling for President Zelensky to be replaced. 
He'd rather do business with a dictator than stand with our ally. That tells you exactly who Donald Trump is.  https://t.co/yqpp59BUGm

National Coming Out Day is about celebrating the courage it takes to live openly and authentically, as well as supporting those who aren’t able to take that leap yet. Generations of LGBTQIA+ advocates have fought for equality and acceptance, wishing for their own shot at dignity and the American dream. We’ve come so far in the fight for equal rights, and I’m proud to represent a community that refuses to allow those rights to backslide. Whether it’s a teen struggling to express themselves, or an adult coming out later in life, there’s nothing more American than living your true self, and I won’t stop fighting for that right.

On this day in 2012, Malala Yousafzai was targeted and shot by the Taliban for speaking out in support of girls education in Pakistan.  Rather than silencing her voice, the attack brought greater international attention to the barriers preventing millions of girls from receiving an education. Malala survived and continued advocating for every child’s right to learn, later becoming the youngest-ever recipient of the Nobel Peace Prize.   Today, we recognize Malala’s courage and the continued fight for equal access to education around the world.

Congressional Republicans refuse to show up and do their jobs on behalf of the American people. Every day, the affordability crisis is crushing families who are struggling to keep up with the rising cost of groceries, housing, utilities, gas, and healthcare because of Republican policies and rubber stamping Donald Trump’s reckless agenda. Western New Yorkers don’t need more political games. We need people who will fight for an affordable America. House Democrats are ready to do the work to lower costs and give families a fair shot at getting ahead. https://t.co/SFPF1UV3iO

Three years ago, Hamas carried out the horrific October 7 terrorist attack, killing nearly 1200 people. Today, we remember the innocent lives lost, and grieve with the families who will never see their loved ones again. The subsequent war has brought immense suffering. The civilian loss in this conflict, the devastation, and the ongoing violence in the West Bank is unconscionable. The United States has a moral obligation to pursue a lasting peace and a two state solution. As we remember the victims of October 7th and those who have died since, we must continue to condemn terrorism and hate in all forms while recognizing the humanity and dignity of all people. I will continue to pray for peace, security, and an end to the suffering and violence in the Middle East and around the world.

On October 7, 2016 the Survivors’ Bill of Rights Act was signed into law, establishing important federal protections for survivors of sexual assault The law strengthened survivors’ rights regarding forensic evidence, including the right to have evidence preserved and to receive information about its status. It represented an important step toward ensuring survivors are treated with respect, fairness, and dignity throughout the justice system. We must continue working to ensure every survivor has access to the support they need and is treated with the dignity and respect they deserve. https://t.co/GawEHhOD4I

A good-paying job can change the trajectory of a family’s life. @DDawkins66 and @Peaceprints of WNY are showing what the City of Good Neighbors is all about - connecting Western New Yorkers with the resources, guidance, and opportunities they need to get back to work and build a better future. Everyone deserves a fair shot at building a career, supporting their family, and moving forward. This is the City of Good Neighbors at its best. https://t.co/swieHQeJIP