Queens, New York – Assemblyman David Weprin issued the following statement on the National Puerto Rican Day Parade:

“Despite my steadfast support for the Puerto Rican community in New York, it has become clear to me that the controversy surrounding this year’s National Puerto Rican Day Parade has overshadowed the annual celebration of Puerto Rican culture that we enjoy each year. As such, I will not be marching in this year’s parade. Still, I am hopeful all sides will be able to come together to provide a more inclusive environment for the parade and look forward to participating in years to come.”