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The Remarks of Speaker Carl E. Heastie

Opening Session Statement on Terrorist Attacks in Belgium


Tuesday, March 22, 2016
Assembly Chamber

[as prepared]


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Assembly Speaker Carl Heastie today joined his colleagues in the Assembly chamber for a moment of silence in memory of the victims of the terrorist attacks in Brussels. Speaker Heastie's remarks expressed solidarity with the people of Belgium in the battle against terrorism and also in support of freedom and peace throughout the world.
We begin our proceedings today with heavy hearts following the tragic attacks in Brussels early this morning. As New Yorkers, we are all too familiar with the devastating effects of violence and terrorism.

We also know that the weight of this tragedy is felt not only by those who were targeted in Belgium this morning, but in communities across the globe.

Their healing process may be long and trying but we have no doubt that the city of Brussels will come back stronger and more united. Sometimes finding the strength to live on seems the only true defense against these cowardly acts of violence.

I remind New Yorkers that it is days like this when we must embrace our loved ones, put our differences aside and choose instead, to stand together for the sake of life, liberty and peace.

I pray that the people of Brussels will find their strength in each other and take comfort in knowing that they are not alone.

At this time, let us pause for a moment of silence …