NYC Councilman Cornegy Honors Victims Of Coronavirus Pandemic

BED-STUY, BROOKLYN — New York City Councilman Robert Cornegy, Jr., unveiled a floral tribute on Wednesday to honor the lives of those who have lost their lives due to the coronavirus pandemic saying that not being able to do so is forgotten tragedy of the global health crisis.

The ceremony, which took place at Restoration Plaza, included the original floral arrangement, which was created by florist Marjeth Cummings of La Vie En Rose designs, who lost her mother to the virus earlier this year.

At a ceremony that included a variety of speakers, Cummings said that the floral tribute pays homage not only to her mother, but to anyone who has lost their lives due to COVID-19. Cornegy said the floral arrangement that was the centerpiece of Wednesday's memorial signifies solidarity, healing and uplifting those who are dealing with loss during such a difficult time.

“Given all the challenges of the pandemic, our ongoing sense of community spirit serves as a critical part of our healing,” Cornegy said. “Our engagement, in fellowship, in community, and in remembrance is part of our getting through this difficult time together.

More than 23,700 New York City residents have died from coronavirus-related issues since the start of the pandemic.

Cornegy added: “One of the particularly cruel aspects of the pandemic has been the inability to observe the memorials and services that help us through the loss of a loved one. Friends, families, and neighbors, we gain so much by being able to share remembrances. That is what brings us together.

“Coming together connects us to one another in solidarity as we face this crisis together. That solidarity is expressed in many ways — from checking in on a neighbor to wearing a mask to protect one another. And that solidarity is also expressed in coming together to honor the lives and legacies of those we have lost.”