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PUBLIC TESTIMONY

Testimony by Lorenzo Van Ness, Director of Community Organizing and Engagement at New York City Commission on Racial Equity (CORE)

3:22:21

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3 min

Lorenzo Van Ness, representing the New York City Commission on Racial Equity (CORE), testified in support of increasing government accountability to the LGBTQIA+ community and those affected by the carceral system. They emphasized the disproportionate representation of Black, Latinx, and TGNCNBI individuals in the Department of Corrections custody and the need for additional programming in jails.

  • Van Ness highlighted CORE's recent engagement with over 4,000 New Yorkers, revealing strong support for priorities addressing recidivism prevention and improving mental and physical health of incarcerated individuals.
  • They expressed support for several proposed pieces of legislation, including Intros 412, 423, 625, 152, and 1027, as responsive to the needs expressed by New Yorkers.
  • Van Ness shared personal experience as a Queer Trans LatinX New Yorker and emphasized the importance of listening to communities' needs for safety, protection, and the opportunity to thrive.