UTICA, N.Y. — A special award ceremony was held to honor Utica’s Black and Latino first responders.
The event, organized by “Rebuilding the Village” on Thursday, recognized the important role these individuals play in the community.
They received plaques to commemorate their contributions.
The ceremony was made possible with a grant from Assemblywoman Marianne Buttenschon, who attended to present the awards.
Freddie Hamilton, president of the Oneida County branch of the NAACP, said, “We want the community to understand that these people serve as a bridge between our communities of color and law enforcement. They serve as mentors, and they serve as role models for our young people who want to choose these careers. They may be interested in careers as first responders.”
Rebuilding the Village provides essential resources for youth, children and families in the Utica area.
