Blondel A. Pinnock’s Post

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President and CEO

I found this picture in an office in Restoration. It is Franklin Thomas, Restoration’s, first President and CEO and Congresswoman Shirley Chisolm. What are they looking at and what are they planning: 1. What does the future economic landscape for our people look like for Bed-Stuy and Crown Heights? 2. How do we build an inclusive political landscape for the Black and Brown agenda for all of Brooklyn? 3. How do we make sure we are represented in corporate board rooms and what does a run for Congress (and President) look like? What do you think?

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In 1972, I was in awe of Congresswoman Shirley Chisolm. She spoke with such strength and clarity. At 15, I was only beginning to understand the odds of her winning the Democratic nomination. A remarkable woman, and a genuine American!

Basil Smikle, PhD

Professor of Practice and Director of the M.S. in nonprofit management program. Columbia University School of Professional Studies

9mo

That’s an awesome find

Wow! Both are heroes from my President Street, Crown Heights childhood! Thank you!🙏🏽✊🏽

Lawrence G. Hammond

Senior Vice President/Director of CPC ACCESS at The Community Preservation Corporation/Empowerment Strategist

9mo

Thanks for sharing. You are definitely standing on some solid foundation and doing exceptionally well in leadership of this transformative enterprise for the communities being served. Keep up the good work.

The discussions surrounding the vision of Franklin Thomas and Congresswoman Shirley Chisholm remain relevant today. Addressing economic landscapes and inclusive representation is critical for Bed-Stuy and Crown Heights. How can we collectively support initiatives that empower our communities and ensure their voices are heard in corporate and political arenas?

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Tonya Ores

Chief Executive Officer at Neighborhood Housing Services of New York City, Inc.

9mo

Absolutely Love This! I see the expressions of hope, inspiration, and determination on their faces! The restoration Plaza continues to be a beacon of hope for communities and residents. Thanks for sharing Blondel!

Cliff Rosenthal

Author, Democratizing Finance: Origins of the Community Development Financial Institutions Movement

9mo

What a great picture! I wrote about the origins of BedStuy Restoration in my book, Democratizing Finance. Would have loved to include that. Maybe in my upcoming edition.

Wayne A. Francis, MSEd

Senior Operations Executive with expertise in Strategy & Workforce Development

8mo

Just saw the movie along with my children and wife Karrien Francis and we learned so much about her hero. Thnx for sharing! D9 been leading and doing work for generations! 🤘🏾

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Two BRILLIANT, CLASSY, RESILIENT, STRONG 💪 BLACK LEADERS who LAID THE FOUNDATION for Black Leaders of the 21st century 🎶🤩 🎼 👏🎵🙏🏾🥰!

Riley Jones, IV

Aspen Institute Future Climate Leader | Funder | Professor | Forbes 30 Under 30 Social Entrepreneur

9mo

Two dynamic Black Columbia alumni too!! Black Alumni Council of Columbia University

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