JEWISH SENTINEL

14 JEWISH SENTINEL • JUNE 18 - 24, 2021 By DWEYNIE ESTHER PAUL I n the 21st century, the Ameri- can Dream remains elusive for people of color, immigrants, and low-income families, because of the systemic racism that has been prevalent in the history of our society - particularly within the justice system. Equal protection under the law begins with repre- sentation on the bench that reflects the communities we serve, ensur- ing that our decisions are fair in every case over which we preside. Fighting for justice is at the core of my essence, instilled by my late mother, who never allowed the adversities that she encountered to dictate her potential in life. My mother, an orphan in Haiti at the age of 8 and formally educated at 13, migrated to Brooklyn very poor but rich in hope, faith, de- termination, and a spirit to work hard. Although she was a deeply spiritual woman, I do not know if she knew that her daughter would ments, along with my election as Civil Court Judge in the State of New York, was beyond what she could have ever imagined. have an opportunity to go to school in America, and graduate from George Washington University Law School. These accomplish- My journey to the bench started when I was nine years old, cop- ing with the tragic death of my 12-year-old brother while on a youth trip that resulted in a wrong- ful death lawsuit in Supreme Court. My parents tried to navi- gate Family Court simultaneously to determine the best way to raise me. I watched my parents struggle to find justice for my brother, and I quickly learned what it meant to have a voice in the courtroom, a lawyer to fight for my rights. I saw how important it was for the judge to understand my life experiences to make the right decision for me, my family, and the community. I am passionate about the Surro- gate’s Court because I intimately know what it means for one gener- ation to start from humble begin- nings and work hard to give the next generation a head start in life. I share the same story as many oth- ers; with strong values and love for community, my parents realized the American Dream. They wanted to ensure I had my fair share in life measured by my character and will to work. Parents envision that their children would realize the fruits of their labor. It is the same dream of sharecroppers, immigrants, and generations of families who built this country. Families must feel empowered to preserve wealth passed down from one generation to the next. The Surrogate’s Court is a refuge for orphans and widows, a place for persons with mental disabili- ties and minors to receive guard- ians and families united through The Comeback Vote Delivering economic justice through the Surrogate’s Court OPINION The Surrogate’s Court was an integral part of protecting the legacy that I would inherit. continued on page 22 I am more than capable and ready to serve as Brooklyn’s next Surrogate Court Judge because I have the experience. Self Service BBQ For Ten $219.90 15 Hebrew National ® Beef Franks & Rolls 10 Quarter Pound Beef Burgers & Buns 2-1/2 Ready-To-Eat-Or-Heat BBQ Chickens & Dinner Rolls 2 lbs. Fresh-Cut Cole Slaw 2 lbs. Homemade Potato Salad 20 Assorted Canned Sodas Pickles, Lettuce, Tomato, Onions, Ketchup, Ben’s Very Own Old Style Deli Mustard & Paper Goods © 2021 Ronald M. Dragoon eGift Cards Great for Dad! Purchase online at BensDeli.net. Catering For Six $99.99 2 lbs. of Plattered Meats or 6 Plattered Sandwiches (cut in thirds) 1-1/4 lbs. of Potato Salad 1-1/4 lbs. of Cole Slaw 9 Assorted Pickles 16 Slices of Rye with Meat Platter 1 doz. Mini Franks 1 doz. Mini Potato Knishes Russian Dressing & Ben’s Very Own Old Style Deli Mustard Father’s Day Specials! Big Ben Burger $19.99 Includes choice of French fries, potato knish or deli side salad & a Dr. Brown’s soda With a cold beer . . . . . $21.99