Dr. Nelson testimony: introduction and family recognition advocacy

Thank you so much.

I am Dr.

Mecca Nelson, a humble Haitian warrior.

I am a U.S.

Army Gold Star spouse, a first responder mom, a business owner, advocate

for veterans and military-connected families, and also an ambassador for the Institute for Veterans and Military Families, an ambassador for Tunnels to Towers as well.

Good afternoon, Chair and distinguished members of the New York City Council, veterans, military families, and everyone gathered here today.

I also want to thank Commissioner Mata and the DVS team for taking the time to listen to the concerns of our military families, including Gold Star families, Silver Star families, and White Star families.

Thank you for speaking out about our Gold Star families and for bringing attention to our Silver Star and White Star families.

Your willingness to hear their experiences and raise awareness of their needs matters.

And I appreciate your time and attention to these families.

When someone serves our country, their family shares in that service.

And when that service leaves a family grieving, caregiving, or struggling to move forward, our responsibilities, our responsibility to do that family must continue.

To support that family must continue.

This is connected to recognition and continued advocacy.

First, I want to thank everyone who heard.

Me on September 22nd of last year when I stood before you and spoke about white star families, silver star families, and gold star families.

I placed particular emphasis on establishing a day to recognize white star families, to honor their loved ones, acknowledge their grief,

and bring greater awareness to their experiences.

I also want to emphasize the importance of celebrating and honoring Silver Star families, recognizing their sacrifices and letting them know that they are not alone.

Each of these families deserves

to feel seen, supported, and valued by the community.

Today, I gratefully see the advocacy being held and this recognition is moving forward.