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U.S. Representative Adriano Espaillat Addresses Diversity and Education at COE Annual Conference 

September 10, 2024 — by Terrance L. Hamm

Representative Adriano Espaillat (D-NY) is a powerful member of the House of Representatives Committee on Appropriations, responsible for funding the federal government, including the Federal TRIO Programs. He is a lifelong champion for working and middle-class families and a TRIO ally.

New York, NY—U.S. Representative Adriano Espaillat (D-NY) delivered an inspiring speech at the Council for Opportunity in Education’s annual conference on Monday, September 9 in New York City. Espaillat emphasized the importance of diversity, education, and young people’s power in society. 

Espaillat, representing a District known for its vibrant multicultural community, expressed his remarks with gratitude. “Thank you, Stephanie,” he said, acknowledging Stephanie Kusi, an alumna of the Bronx Community College Upward Bound program and rising senior at New York University, who introduced him that morning. “You are a ray of hope for all of us.” He noted that his New York City District in the West Bronx is home to many immigrants, illustrating the rich tapestry of cultures that define the area. 

“This District is probably one of the most exciting in the country,” he declared, highlighting its small geographical size yet immense cultural significance. “You could almost walk it on a nice day.” He pointed out that while other Congressional Districts may span vast regions, his District captures iconic neighborhoods like Harlem, East Harlem, and Washington Heights, each contributing to its unique identity. 

Espaillat underscored the role of young people in driving societal change. “Nothing of any importance has happened without the direct impact of young people,” he stated emphatically. “You are an army of goodwill.” He urged attendees to recognize the influence they wield in shaping the future. 

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Reflecting on his congressional journey, Espaillat recounted how he chose to serve on the House Education and Labor Committee early in his tenure. “The District that I represent had only been represented by two people in 75 years before me,” he said, referencing the late Charles B. Rangel and the legendary Adam Clayton Powell Jr. “It was imperative to ensure our community had a voice in education.” 

He highlighted his commitment to TRIO programs and recalled how he fought to protect the Upward Bound program when the U.S. Department of Education disqualified nearly 80 applicants in the FY2017 grant competition for non-substantive “errors,” like line spacing and font size. “This program is vital for our community,” Espaillat remarked. “Families talk about it; young people rely on it. It shapes their future.” 

Espaillat concluded his speech with a call to action: “Let’s continue to fight for these programs and the young people in our communities. Our future depends on it.” The audience responded enthusiastically, reflecting a shared commitment to fostering educational opportunities for all. 

As the conference unfolded, Espaillat’s remarks served as a poignant reminder of education and federal legislation’s role in uplifting marginalized populations in communities nationwide and shaping a brighter future for all. 

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