BROOKLYN-USA.ORG MESSAGE FROM BOROUGH PRESIDENT ADAMS 3
A message from
Brooklyn Borough President Eric L. Adams
While enjoying a day in Prospect Park, my favorite
urban oasis, I saw a mother and her children
swimming in the lake. The young ones were all
following along in a single file as they gracefully
enjoyed the warm weather and the cool water.
Of course, these were not human beings, but a
mother goose and her goslings. As I watched the
parent-child interaction, it reinforced my longtime
belief that emotions and commitment to family are
not characteristics unique to any one creature; all
living things feel, and we should value those feelings.
The attachment to one’s offspring is a strong
bond that all parents share and a fundamental
relationship to which we can all relate.
I am sharing these thoughts because it is important
to me that we, as Brooklynites, are focused
on protecting all members of our family, including
our parents, children and pets.It is why I started a
group when I was a state senator called Legislators
for the Humane Treatment of Animals, through
which we led actions with members of our community
such as protesting the slaughter of geese
in our city or advocating for the welfare of circus
elephants trained with bullhooks.Defenseless animals
are entitled to caring, proper treatment at the
hands of humans. Our daily tabloids have shown
people who kick stray cats as well as chain up and
abandon dogs in the park. Just recently, we have
even seen evidence of a maniac poisoning dozens
of innocent animals in Bay Ridge. Prevention of
cruelty is a hallmark of a decent civilization, and
we must strive to eliminate abuse and brutality to
every New Yorker — regardless of species.
That kindness must also extend to helping
thousands of furry friends find a loving, forever
home. As borough president, I have held several events that promoted the adoption of shelter cats, dogs, and rabbits
— including an upcoming opportunity this April in Marine Park. Furthermore, I continue to push a measure in the State
Legislature that would provide tax incentives for New Yorkers to adopt pets from animal shelters or humane societies. In
the coming months, I will be working with organizations like Brooklyn Animal Action to promote spaying and neutering
practices that advance our humane and healthy goals.
Pets, instead of losing their lives, can give life to so many people.For many of our seniors, they are a constant companion
when they lose a loved one or live at home alone. Our children learn how to care for them and create bonds that
last a lifetime. They are our exercise buddies, our confidantes, our friendly faces to greet us when we come home.I still
treasure fond memories of Speedy, my childhood dog, who made sure my family and I never felt alone. He always knew
when I was sick, always knew when I was on the other side of the front door.
My mission at Brooklyn Borough Hall is to grow healthy children and families, and pets can be such a priceless part
of that equation. Animals of every stripe are members of our One Brooklyn community, whether domesticated or in the
wild, and we should all support an environment in which we can thrive together.
Photo: Erica Sherman/Brooklyn BP’s O ce
Borough President Adams took in the fireworks display on the Riegelmann Boardwalk at his second annual
One Brooklyn New Year’s Eve celebration in Coney Island.
/BROOKLYN-USA.ORG