Press Release

Meeks, Schumer, Gillibrand Secure Passage of Bill Honoring Queens’ Cynthia Jenkins

Dec 4, 2014

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Congressman Gregory W. Meeks, Senator Chuck Schumer, and Senator Kirsten Gillibrand issued the following statement today concerning the passage of the renaming of the post office at 218-10 Merrick Boulevard in Springfield Gardens, New York to the Cynthia Jenkins Post Office Building:   

“Today, with the passage of the Cynthia Jenkins Post Office Building renaming, the legacy of Southern Queens’s first African-American Assemblywoman, Cynthia Jenkins, has been recognized. That both chambers of Congress affirmed H.R. 3957 unanimously speaks to all that she accomplished,” Congressman Meeks remarked. 

“Cynthia Jenkins was a dedicated public servant committed to her community, and by renaming the Springfield Gardens Post Office after her we appropriately honor her legacy,” said Senator Schumer. “I am pleased that Congress has passed this legislation. It is a truly fitting tribute to a woman who served as a role model for so many; she worked hard as a librarian, community activist and finally, as Southern Queens’ first African-American Assemblywoman advocating – and delivering – on her constituents’ behalf.”

“I am pleased the Merrick Boulevard post office will now be named after Cynthia Jenkins,” said Senator Gillibrand, who wrote a letter to the Senate Committee on Homeland Security to advocate for the renaming of the post office. “Cynthia Jenkins broke down barriers as the first African American Assemblywoman in Southeast Queens. She was a champion for the community and rightly deserves this recognition for her contributions. Naming the Merrick Boulevard Post Office after her will stand as a memorial to honor her life and legacy in Springfield Gardens.” 

As a community activist, Cynthia Jenkins fought for social and racial equality, better education, and improved healthcare for veterans. As a librarian, she did all that she could for libraries and promoted literacy throughout Queens. Cynthia Jenkins took these and other noble causes with her to Albany to continue to advocate on the floor of the New York State Assembly, where she served honorably for twelve years.   Congressman Meeks added, “The dedication of the post office will both honor all that she did for our community and remind us to stay dedicated to her causes.”